"\u003C!DOCTYPE html\u003E\u003Chtml xmlns:xlink=\u0022http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink\u0022 xmlns:xsi=\u0022http://www.w3.org/2007/XMLSchema-instance\u0022 xmlns:mml=\u0022http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML\u0022\u003E\n  \u003Chead\u003E\n    \u003CMETA http-equiv=\u0022Content-Type\u0022 content=\u0022text/html; charset=utf-16\u0022\u003E\n    \u003Cmeta name=\u0022viewport\u0022 content=\u0022width=device-width, initial-scale=1\u0022\u003E\n  \u003C/head\u003E\n  \u003Cbody style=\u0022font-family:sans-serif; font-size:100%;\u0022\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00226937ec681be044f4862f5055c4e7fbe4\u0022\u003ETUESDAY, 4 NOVEMBER 2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000003\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a2c3021353db448fb7e6307ed6e38b72\u0022\u003ETUESDAY, 4 NOVEMBER 2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000002\u0022\u003EMr Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000004\u0022\u003EPrayers.\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000005\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a5f55cc68034413b9a9de69d2d4d809a\u0022\u003EOral Questions\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000006\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022d5f29f66760b482fa2c241a5554698bd\u0022\u003EQuestions to Ministers\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000007\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022c7168d7dc49d4a05b98f13ed860238a9\u0022\u003EIslamic State Conflict\u2014Government Response\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022 data-id=\u0022516bed2f7af0475eaf5fd4b4d3c30c6d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000008\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E1. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022516bed2f7af0475eaf5fd4b4d3c30c6d\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS (Leader\u2014NZ First)\u003C/span\u003E to the Prime Minister: Is he committed to an open and transparent Government on issues where New Zealand may soon be involved in conflict in the Middle East?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022 data-id=\u0022f46962def2034a2dbd21dd87c0ced031\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000009\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f46962def2034a2dbd21dd87c0ced031\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY (Prime Minister):\u003C/span\u003E As I have previously said, the Government is looking at a range of options to contribute to the international coalition against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). ISIL is a brutal organisation that deserves the strongest of condemnation. It is my intention to be as open and transparent with New Zealanders as I can responsibly be about the issue of such a potential contribution. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000010\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221ffdf0a964034e16898367ab639c3f8e\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: Why then has he delayed including the public in, to use his words, \u201Ca mature conversation\u201D about the Islamic State threat until after the election and, indeed, until this week?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000011\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022047a875e2b214d7f894eb85bebc68f08\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: During the course of the election campaign there were questions raised about ISIL, and I clearly remember making quite a number of comments. One of the problems was that I was about the only person in the entire Parliament who wanted to talk about policy and issues of that matter\u2014certainly, I do not remember that member being in that position.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000012\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d6d6862f4b654e7e8ee52330d0ab792b\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: Given that in June he was giving the public of this country his personal assurance that the Government would not be involved, why has the Government been selectively releasing information about the Islamic State threat rather than keeping the public fully informed on the nature of the threat it poses to New Zealand?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000013\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ac3a1464389a4032b0c049a7e2283d7f\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Firstly, the situation in Iraq is evolving, and I think all members of the international community would acknowledge that. Secondly, tomorrow, as the member is probably aware, it is my intention to give a major speech on the issue that I think will actually spell out for New Zealanders both the range of options available and a sense of the risk, domestically, regionally, and internationally. Finally, my understanding is that with the agreement of the Business Committee there is going to be a ministerial statement in the House tomorrow by myself. There will be a wide-ranging debate. We have ensured that all political parties, even those that have fewer than 6 members, will be able to be part of that debate. It is my expectation that New Zealanders, from their lounge rooms to this Parliament, will want to debate what contribution, if any, that New Zealand might make. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000014\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002268d884bb9adf4440bf4ad1fcea1ef580\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: What assurances can the Prime Minister give that New Zealand will not commit military forces to meeting the Islamic State threat unless there is the United Nations\u2019 sanction for military action?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000015\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d22ec5e42ff74e3c940b7704f9858b01\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: The first thing I would say is that the member really will need to wait until he sees the speech tomorrow and then he can draw his own conclusions on that question. But, secondly, in terms of the United Nations, one area we are following is the United Nations resolution in relation to foreign fighters. That is something we have been closely following, and that is the very reason why the Government is putting up some proposals, which will be included in the speech tomorrow, to address that issue. I will take a moment to thank the Labour Party, which I understand is supporting it, and I hope that New Zealand First will support it because it has had the same briefings from officials that the Labour Party has.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000016\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dc21580c51334ce4be45b3612b658a62\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: Given that answer, why would the New Zealand public not regard the Prime Minister\u2019s so-called mature conversation on the Islamic State issue as a smokescreen and window-dressing, when critical decisions have already been made by the Government?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000017\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228f3ba3c80c8246e482b1a58bfa217d45\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: No decisions have actually been made by the Government yet, except for the ones in relation to humanitarian aid, where we have previously made contributions, I think, of up to $13.5 million. So no decisions have actually been made. Some decisions may well be made in the future, and when people get a chance to see my speech tomorrow they will decide that. I simply say to the member that the issue here is not about whether we are trying to withhold information from the New Zealand public; the issue here is about protecting the New Zealand public from a threat that is credible internationally, regionally, and domestically.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000018\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b5ac251f5e1646a897ebf530a0d985ad\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: Is it not true that Cabinet has already made a decision on this matter; if it is true, what confidence can the public have that all the material decisions about New Zealand\u2019s role in relation to the international response to the Islamic State threat have not already been made by the Government?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000019\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221e571bf284294c53a267d18bec2a9408\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Unless the member is the 21st member of the National Cabinet, then he knows something I do not. But outside that, no decisions have been made by Cabinet. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000020\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229a9c850d08134fd1848e2f69dd794503\u0022\u003EDavid Shearer\u003C/span\u003E: Given that he has stated that any New Zealand deployment would be \u201Cthere for a reasonably significant period of time\u201D, what would he define as the exit point, or the point at which it had finished its job?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000021\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a25003bf928746d484380723e86a40a4\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Firstly, I would urge the member to closely look at the speech tomorrow; he will have a better understanding when he sees that. Secondly, the point I was making is simply that if you look at something like Afghanistan, in reality, when the Labour Government committed New Zealand\u2019s resources and forces to Afghanistan, I am not sure people would have thought it would be for the 11 or 12 years that we ultimately stayed, but that was the length of time required. I think, realistically, whatever takes place in a country like Iraq is not something that is going to be very short term. Whether that is 2, 3, 4, or 5 years I do not know, but if the member is asking me whether something was of the order of 6 months, then I would say that if that decision was made, then it would be no.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022312ad6e3f76d4f56a9a2b0b421577748\u0022\u003EEconomic Programme\u2014Budget 2015 and Better Public Services\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022 data-id=\u0022a9a4538c06ca4880a2402a54295881a0\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000023\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E2. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a9a4538c06ca4880a2402a54295881a0\u0022\u003EJAMI-LEE ROSS (National\u2014Botany)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: What Budget approach is the Government taking to ensure that New Zealanders in genuine need receive targeted and effective support through public services?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u00225932434b1ee64b749ca3c0470f62f894\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000024\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225932434b1ee64b749ca3c0470f62f894\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance):\u003C/span\u003E The Government is building on its approach of the past 6 years, which has focused on delivering for people better results from public services and targeting spending on its services where we can get a return from effective delivery. During our first term, we capped the public sector head count, reprioritised spending towards front-line services, and extracted an efficiency dividend from the public sector. In our second term, the Better Public Services programme started to deliver measurable results in meeting some of New Zealand\u2019s most challenging issues. The introduction of the investment approach to welfare has demonstrated a marked improvement in Government decision-making and policy delivery, and reduced welfare dependency. We intend to build further on this and other programmes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000025\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e0a7c7abf52a476b910e69e682b340cf\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: How will the Government\u2019s approach to delivering better public services be reflected in its preparation of Budget 2015?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000026\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224f6aa90b31fc46cda636d4aa795d6689\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: Budget 2015 will involve continued restraint in Government spending, and the Government is bringing in a set of tools that demonstrate that what works for our communities\u2014what makes them safer and better educated, for instance\u2014also works for the Government\u2019s books. As the Prime Minister has confirmed, one of the Government\u2019s priorities for this term will be helping children and families in material deprivation and hardship. In particular, the Government will focus on children and their families at risk of poor education; criminal justice; and employment results. Many of these families are not well served by current public service arrangements. This will require extra resources for initiatives that focus on children and their families in need, and achieving results for them. The Government expects this will require a combination of some new investment but also significant reprioritising of money from existing spending that does not work.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000027\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022164bf90af9d9477e8d1d552f897878dc\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: What specific steps will the Government take in preparing Budget 2015 to ensure initiatives focus on delivering better results for New Zealanders in need?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000028\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aa27c552f0ae4b70b43049dd51188f1b\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: Social sector agencies will work to extend and further evolve the investment approach that the Government has developed over recent years. This will include identifying solutions for the most at-risk groups who need individualised assistance based on their local and family circumstances; recognising and challenging the effectiveness of existing spending and policy delivery involving children and families, communities, and providers and developing these solutions; and expanding ideas based on data across public agencies, which tell us where these families are, when they need help, and which ones need investment in them. We plan to have an open working relationship with external providers, academics, community groups, and others who use public services.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000029\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cebc9a07a98441e5a7905eef4192536a\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: What will be the next steps in the Government\u2019s focus on delivering better services and support for the most at-risk children and their families?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000030\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a01357de63d2454c865d0aa9b902854a\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: Through the Government tender system the Government is issuing a request for information to help target spending on social services and get better results for children and their families who are most at risk. This is the next step in a process that will see ongoing involvement of social service providers, front-line staff, and communities. In particular, we want to help those most at risk and the hardest-to-reach New Zealanders. So Treasury will go out to a range of groups, seeking feedback on how existing services work, how they can be improved, and how they can be better targeted.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000031\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221300b3b9fcae40b6a69c10e388d8ab36\u0022\u003EMarama Fox\u003C/span\u003E: Does the Minister agree with the chief economic adviser for Allianz that unless developed nations hike minimum wage rates, income inequality will continue to engulf those economies; if so, what initiatives will he take to lift the minimum wage and ensure outcomes are improved for New Zealanders in genuine need?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000032\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002203f6e3464b584b4183dd5a3b2390c899\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I have not seen the advice from the Allianz economic adviser, but I can inform the member that the Government has consistently lifted the minimum wage each year. In fact, New Zealand\u2019s minimum wage is, I think, second-highest in the OECD as a proportion of the average wage. So the Government will continue to weigh up the balance of lifting incomes for those on the minimum wage by increasing the minimum wage, but not at the expense of putting them out of work.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000033\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002274ff554cb2824c9486e185251c506b99\u0022\u003EState and Social Housing\u2014Housing Stock\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022 data-id=\u00224ac0adcb175147a9b6ecf14add29fd3c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000034\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E3. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224ac0adcb175147a9b6ecf14add29fd3c\u0022\u003EHon ANNETTE KING (Acting Deputy Leader\u2014Labour)\u003C/span\u003E to the Prime Minister: Does he stand by his statement \u201CWell if we were selling Housing New Zealand the corporation or 25 percent or 49 percent, yes that would be an asset sale\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022 data-id=\u00226550e1c9b6c9407f8a8c7cb1388c5c86\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000035\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226550e1c9b6c9407f8a8c7cb1388c5c86\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY (Prime Minister):\u003C/span\u003E Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000036\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002259bf07aacf694220843d09bf391b62a1\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Why does he think that selling House New Zealand bureaucracy would be an asset sale, but selling up to 22,000 of its houses, worth around $5 billion, would not be an asset sale?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000037\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c5362458e7364f7c93a351c103626110\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Firstly, the member is making it up. I have never said that we are going to sell that many houses; I am simply making the point that if Housing New Zealand sells some homes, as it did under the previous Labour Government\u2014about a thousand of them\u2014then I do not class that to be an asset sale.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000038\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e1720e82b17c40dda119848a62b41e2e\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: In light of that answer, will there be more houses built or bought by the Government to replace the number of State houses sold under the great State house sell-off?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000039\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227726344c8fa845909dbcf40706000734\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: What I can guarantee is that there will be more people accommodated under income-related rents and, therefore, having accessibility to affordable homes. In the end, the real point here is that we want to see more New Zealanders getting access to that very low-cost level of housing, and it is much more sensible to ask community housing providers and others with access to income-related rents to do that than simply for Housing New Zealand to buy them.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000040\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b7e475f07f3b407496ea2fb69fd64d46\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: In light of that answer, does he stand by his statement that the fastest way of moving people out of poverty is to deliver more income-related rents; if so, how is he going to get the houses to apply those subsidies without simply subsidising private landlords?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000041\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022599af99c998c4898b14401fabb2139f8\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Firstly, the only people who can get income-related rents are community housing providers or Housing New Zealand. The Labour Party fundamentally knows so little about rents that it cannot even work out what a capital gains tax is going to do, and therefore it cannot even work out who gets an income-related rent.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000042\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002206bbec2ecc2d4d0e82ead1bf3cce3e94\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: What discussions have taken place with social housing providers in light of the Monte Cecilia Housing Trust, an important provider, saying yesterday: \u201CThe Government seems to be able to make announcements one day and then tell us \u2018well we\u2019ve not really done the detail\u2019\u201D the next day. Is that not what you would call a shambles for it?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000043\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b098ad8afdfd4ad794187e6e88e82796\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: I cannot tell you exactly what discussions have been held because I am not responsible for that, but there are a wide range of community housing providers\u2014I think there are about 30 in total, actually. My understanding is that there have been\u2014[Interruption] Thirty-two, thank you. My understanding is that there have been quite wide-ranging discussions. But what is clear is that the Government\u2019s intent in this area has been foreshadowed for quite some time. What we are endeavouring to do is to make sure that the social housing sector in New Zealand grows.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000044\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e39a1665f18649dba111b96c0f645a69\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: This is the worst ramble of the year.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000045\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228d03aca6279544cf9351c1716bdc4554\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Well, the worst ramble of the year is from the four wannabe leaders who cannot even turn up to Parliament.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000046\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002240aa3af8e1284b25a6524756cccfc4e1\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with the Auckland Community Housing Providers Network that \u201CSelling housing at a time of shortage makes no sense unless the funds from the sales are invested back so that there is a net increase in new social and affordable housing.\u201D; if not, why will he not commit to this?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000047\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022907b859cc80e49379a9283908a87771a\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Certainly, if one was just solely selling a Housing New Zealand house and there was no other replacement in the form of a community housing provider or somebody else who could provide a house, of course that would make no sense because the amount of houses available to low-income people would be, by definition, reducing. The Government\u2019s whole plan here is to increase it. But just before the members opposite\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000048\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002275ffbb14638f4ebf97ca562b1251c547\u0022\u003ESue Moroney\u003C/span\u003E: No, that doesn\u2019t increase it. They\u2019re just shuffled from one place to another.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000049\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229f143401909a4f60b9c717de94b4e781\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Well, Sue Moroney should just be quiet for a second and listen to this important point. If members opposite want to get all excited about selling things, then maybe the member should remember that she was part of a Government that sold Southern Hydro\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000050\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ae726a09e81244bebcf0611df344e15e\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: Come on!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000051\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022158f0796c5ef4be7b4d0438df21df89c\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014that is right, Phil\u2014for $1.6 billion. It was 16 percent of the assets of Meridian Energy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000052\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002264809f00f0274f4284b4047706c82644\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The answer has now moved well past the question that was asked.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000053\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224406c4e727244e27a6feea2c7c410841\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: When the Prime Minister said a moment ago that their policy was very clear, why did he not make it clear during the election campaign that they intended to sell\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000054\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022532639b532814e3c916ec03f42cda3cf\u0022\u003EHon Members\u003C/span\u003E: We did.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000055\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002295553307f20740b2be079d8272d074b8\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: No, no. The Prime Minister said yesterday that he could not make it clear because no one wanted to talk about housing. So why did he not tell the public that he intended to sell a significant chunk of State houses, some of them to property speculators?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000056\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022daffa4d847dd431a9614492745f4e8a0\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: A few things. Firstly, as I pointed out yesterday, the Labour Party was fixated with talking about everything other than policy, and we know where that took them. Secondly, interestingly enough, this is a story from 26 February 2014 and it is titled \u201CEnglish talks up big state housing reform\u201D. That was, by the way, quite a few months before the election. Thirdly, I have had a flick through the Labour Party election manifesto, and I never saw any part of its manifesto talking about selling 16 percent of the assets of Meridian\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000057\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d5db0fd5e4a6441bb10dc60efe889d08\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I thank the Prime Minister, but that is not his responsibility.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000058\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a11519a48e594f5eb2c60b72919272f7\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Is the Prime Minister saying that in the numerous public meetings he held, the four leaders\u2019 debates, the whistle-stop tours, and the hundreds of opportunities for selfies, he never had even a nanosecond to tell those he met that he intended to flog off billions of dollars of State houses because he thought that the Labour Party was busy talking about something else?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cc1c6342747441c8be2dac289a3dcd1d\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: The point I was making was, first, it was in our policy; second, the Minister of Finance had given a speech at the start of the year on it; and, third, my main point was that the Leader of the Opposition did not want to talk about it and neither did anyone else. They wanted to talk about every other little trumped-up scandal but they did not want to talk about policy. That is why, by the way, Labour polled the worst result in living history of the Labour Party for 92 years. So if you want to go and have a re-run of the election campaign and talk about policy, you might do better\u2014but, oops, you do not have a leader to do that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000060\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002238c46723f3594c1b9b9a75e8a5778f61\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000061\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229836a300511b4600afbca3a50d0ccf35\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I have not called the member yet.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000062\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eebfb097787c4416859a44a965e4f534\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave to table the 2002 election result, when the National Party got\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000063\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223f7f7c1b2a464562b834bfdfee145068\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I have heard enough and there is no need to do it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000064\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222242525dea1244acb36aef8285f9112a\u0022\u003EKevin Hague\u003C/span\u003E: Does the Prime Minister guarantee that all proceeds from the sale of State houses will be used for social housing purposes?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000065\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f808b1a13c0745298ce2eb30db4f9afe\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: No decisions have been made yet on what the proceeds will go to, but what I can guarantee the member is that as a result of this policy, more poor and vulnerable New Zealanders will have an affordable roof over their heads. I would have thought that if the member wanted to stop playing politics and start caring about the poor people, he would come over and support the National Government.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000066\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e74998691b5d41ba8f41e774b9b3ba0b\u0022\u003EKevin Hague\u003C/span\u003E: Well, if it is not resolved what the proceeds will be used for, what else might they be used for besides social housing purposes?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000067\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dbffe161fa2c4d7ab2c8aabc4b6811b6\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: As I said, that decision has not been made. In the fullness of time it will be, and we will be happy to stand on the policy and the record of this Government. But what I do know is that as a result of this policy, more New Zealand families, more vulnerable families, will have an affordable roof over their heads. I define that as a success.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000068\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00228e2b693d79eb4abeb685fa2c51ecb960\u0022\u003EScience and Research\u2014Marsden Fund 2014 Grants\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002207d42dbe-f05a-4a7a-8c23-0eecc14b72aa\u0022 data-id=\u0022eba8815c0eee46eebd4652bc2cda743e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000069\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207d42dbe-f05a-4a7a-8c23-0eecc14b72aa\u0022\u003E4. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022eba8815c0eee46eebd4652bc2cda743e\u0022\u003EPAUL FOSTER-BELL (National)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Science and Innovation: What recent investment has the Government made in high-quality investigator-led research?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022 data-id=\u0022acace957e1fa4d5fba3f420bdde8b8ba\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000070\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022acace957e1fa4d5fba3f420bdde8b8ba\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister of Science and Innovation):\u003C/span\u003E Earlier today I announced the results of the latest round of the Marsden Fund. A total of 101 projects from many of New Zealand\u2019s top researchers have been approved and will receive between them $56 million in funding from Marsden Fund grants over the next 3 years. The Marsden Fund, which is administered by the Royal Society of New Zealand on behalf of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, aims to enhance the quality of research and support the advancement of scientific knowledge in New Zealand. Since we came into Government we have increased our support for this fund by 38 percent, despite the global financial crisis, from just under $38 million annually in 2008 to $52.4 million annually this year.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000071\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207d42dbe-f05a-4a7a-8c23-0eecc14b72aa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b819ab3587084233be4714433fbc479c\u0022\u003EPaul Foster-Bell\u003C/span\u003E: What sorts of programmes will receive Marsden Fund grants?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000072\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b87fb62304a645bda4d8b8a9bf39f036\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: Interest in the Marsden Fund continues to grow, with 1,222 applications received for this round. The level of competition has resulted in a high degree of quality amongst the 101 successful applicants in diverse areas such as investigating the behaviour of atoms and molecules under extreme pressure and temperature, exploring the higher incidence of heart failure in diabetics, fine-scale imaging of the Alpine Fault, and probing the origins of high-energy cosmic rays. Through our support for the Marsden Fund we are investing in high-quality investigator-led research to generate new knowledge, which creates long-term benefits for this country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000073\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207d42dbe-f05a-4a7a-8c23-0eecc14b72aa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229a94ad47a4ed484da0391d7474a44c0c\u0022\u003EPaul Foster-Bell\u003C/span\u003E: Why is investigator-led research so important?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000074\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224a00ddd3f4f448aba3c5413fd65b58d7\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: Excellence in research is key to New Zealand becoming a more innovative nation. Encouraging investigator-led research through the Marsden Fund and other programmes is instrumental in further developing advanced research skills and helping attract and retain top research talent for New Zealand. Although the value of a project might not always be clear at the outset, investigator-led research generates ideas, expands the knowledge base, and contributes to the development of our skill base. It is part of the balanced approach that this Government is taking to science and innovation funding.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000075\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022713d15af9d854ff782998bf70e254d03\u0022\u003EEconomy\u2014Export Sector Performance and Government Financial Position\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022 data-id=\u00229fd087f5980349d6926752de17a644ed\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000076\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E5. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229fd087f5980349d6926752de17a644ed\u0022\u003EDr DAVID CLARK (Labour\u2014Dunedin North)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: Based on Treasury\u2019s PREFU forecasts, how much faster will exports have to grow relative to the rest of the economy from the March 2016 year to 2025 to achieve the Government\u2019s 40 percent export target?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u00225460f05f308e4ab19d7febb179917b39\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000077\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225460f05f308e4ab19d7febb179917b39\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance):\u003C/span\u003E If the member does not mind, I will just explain the basis of the numbers so that we do not have endless questioning on this, using different numbers. The target the Government set is for real exports of goods and services as a percentage of real GDP. On that basis Statistics New Zealand reports that the real exports of goods and services have increased from 31.9 percent of the real economy in 2009 to 33.3 percent in 2013, despite the headwinds of a recession, the global financial crisis, and the high dollar. The member, of course, uses the nominal value of exports of goods and services, which includes, for instance, increases and decreases in the prices of them. We do not think that it is an adequate measure of the degree of export intensification in the economy. The Business Growth Agenda update earlier this year said that the ambitious 40 percent target will not be easy. It will require New Zealand to roughly double total exports by 2025. In terms of the question, real exports would have to grow by just over twice the rate of the real economy to reach the Government\u2019s export target of 40 percent of GDP.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000078\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225adba82897b94d3392f6ade93a333976\u0022\u003EDr David Clark\u003C/span\u003E: Is the fact that exports have fallen from close to 33 percent as a proportion of the economy when he took office to now under 30 percent a sign of the success or failure of his goal of rebalancing the economy towards exports?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000079\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b856a6699b5542e587ce9cb134c7e8c7\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: My having indulged the member with an explanation of the basis of the target, he then proceeded to completely ignore the explanation. The target is real exports of goods and services as a percentage of real GDP. In the most common terms, it is the volume of goods and services as a proportion of the volume of the economy. The member is using the nominal measure, and the nominal measure includes changes in price. So, for instance, the drop in the dairy prices would mean a drop, under his calculations, in exports as a proportion of the economy. We do not think that is the best measure. It is a measure, but it is not the best measure. So I simply disagree with the member\u2019s assertion. Whatever numbers he is using are not related to our target.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000080\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b456e79d141b43f8bb8e611a8432a7ae\u0022\u003EDr David Clark\u003C/span\u003E: Is the fact that, even with terms of trade at a 40-year high, the OECD says we will have the second worst current account deficit in the developed world this year, and the IMF says we will have the worst, a sign of the success or failure of his goal of rebalancing the economy?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000081\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c13ddda9e71e4911bb2860fb580048ee\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: The member should be a bit careful about asking that question, because at the peak of the last economic cycle under the previous Government, the current account deficit was minus 8 percent of GDP\u2014minus 8 percent\u2014and I think currently it is at less than half of that. So, yes, that is some success.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000082\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b508b50bcec645f3bbd2ca7d5889a057\u0022\u003EDr David Clark\u003C/span\u003E: Does he really think his aim of rebalancing the economy is achievable given that, even with New Zealand\u2019s terms of trade at their highest in a generation, because of the good fortune of historically high dairy prices, under his own economic settings we still have a current account deficit, and exports as a proportion of the economy are declining?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000083\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b686d488ff354ee0a68df94a6e5758a6\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I simply disagree with the member\u2019s assertion that exports are declining. The price of some of them has declined\u2014there is no doubt about that\u2014but the measure of the real volume, as a proportion of the total volume of the economy, has grown. I mean, this is one difference between the Government and the Opposition. We believe New Zealand exporters have done very well over the last 4 or 5 years, despite difficult circumstances; the Opposition thinks they are hopeless. Well, most of them, I think, supported this Government in the election and back our policy mix, which is encouraging them to become more competitive, and the numbers I have quoted show some progress, but certainly not enough. The target is 2025, and we believe that if we continue to pick up the pace under sensible policies, the export sector may be able to get there.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000084\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224398cdc19fe54f7a9453c1d4ea14f0ab\u0022\u003EDr David Clark\u003C/span\u003E: Why does he think getting further and further away from his own target is a sign of success?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000085\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221584f8a2e94e4875918365c91b996e11\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: We are not getting further and further away from our own target. We are getting a bit closer, despite the fact that circumstances have been pretty difficult. And if you are looking at the rate of progress over the next 4 or 5 years, as the high level of construction runs through and in Christchurch and Auckland we catch up, then there will be more resources\u2014for instance, more people available to go to the export sector. So I would expect some progress over the next few years, and then a faster rate of progress from about 2018-19 onwards.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000086\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00224c07acb22b8a4571b77b9fe91684fca3\u0022\u003EClimate Change Policy\u2014Renewable Energy\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022 data-id=\u0022cf0546cf652a4d9db971a411ce15c1d4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E6. GARETH HUGHES (Green) on behalf of \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022cf0546cf652a4d9db971a411ce15c1d4\u0022\u003EDr RUSSEL NORMAN (Co-Leader\u2014Green)\u003C/span\u003E to the Prime Minister: Does he stand by all his statements?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022 data-id=\u00226522296a1b81449cb2a663bc3752c1b3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226522296a1b81449cb2a663bc3752c1b3\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY (Prime Minister):\u003C/span\u003E Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000089\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221a2db8982ea84cfb83015eef691ec63e\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Does he stand by his statement made yesterday that \u201CThere hasn\u2019t been a single fossil fuel electricity power plant established in the 6 years we\u2019ve been in Government\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000090\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d90d130df87e4154bf51b672578bca82\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000091\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e510c3a3a9a84825893b5555e6f29c18\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Does he remember personally opening the McKee 100 megawatt gas-fired power plant, which contributes to climate change from releasing fossil fuels, on 21 March last year, and perhaps this photo of the Prime Minister opening it will jog his memory?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000092\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c656600924664d26af2ebbfa912cd7a9\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, and a lovely photo.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000093\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221f63581ef197412895e017e366811671\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Is the Prime Minister now saying that apart from the McKee plant, which he personally opened, his Government still, though, has not opened a single fossil fuel electricity power plant in the 6 years he has been in Government?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000094\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228e88e386e0eb4ed98a10cb4ae77178c4\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: The correct term should be coal-fired power plant.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000095\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022099d2ed7a42b4526a7d932477ca9172f\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Well, does the Prime Minister remember personally opening the Stratford 200 megawatt gas fossil fuel - powered plant in Taranaki on 31 May, and perhaps this photo of him opening it\u2014and, in fact, commemorating the plaque\u2014will jog his memory?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000096\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002236775f139b524da0949f8e357c3194a5\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, and I am touched that the member has so many photos of me. If he wants, I will sign them, and he can take them back after playtime.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000097\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aca0da15bf5945efb3df9169e42214e0\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Well, when the Prime Minister\u2014[Interruption] Let us get back to the important issues, eh? When the Prime Minister said\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000098\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220e5f295a1c8744dbbef6b9478f03239e\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I did not catch the interjection, but can the member just stand and ask his question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000099\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221f81cd78d4ae4881ac8010931af7b9be\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I took offence at the ageist remark from the Prime Minister\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000100\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221ac6160ab3a242439304f264468838fb\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I did not hear the interjection, but it is probably a time for all members to just settle and toughen up a bit. I invite the member to ask a supplementary question, otherwise we can move on.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000101\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223fe76d6887a24b2fbd5a29a1a7c9c1c3\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Well, when the Prime Minister of New Zealand stated that the country was on the right track, was the Prime Minister aware of this briefing to his Minister for Climate Change Issues, released under the Official Information Act, which clearly states: \u201CThe gap is growing wider between our climate change targets and the reality.\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000102\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eee397e6f5ec479799893df48968f3f8\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000103\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e2ad599ea2e74575bb8c06d2a316ee5d\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Is New Zealand on the right track regarding climate change when it is ranked in the top 10 countries, according to the Fraser Institute, for policies that support fossil fuels and the oil and gas industry, yet has dropped below Saudi Arabia in the rankings of support mechanisms for renewables?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000104\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002210b155bb53ab406db97896f3ff728eed\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, the country is on the right track. The member can play games with all sorts of silly little numbers if wants to, but the reality is that this is one of the few countries in the world that actually have an emissions trading scheme. This is a country investing very heavily in science and research in relation to the biggest area of greenhouse gas emissions we have, which is agriculture. This is a country that is working hard to make sure that we reach our 90 percent renewable target. What that member is really saying to New Zealanders is that he wants to put them out of work by closing down their factory or whatever it might be, or he wants to charge consumers a lot more. That is, again, why, when we went to the polls and he explained that to the public, they firmly rejected his policies.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000105\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022b6dfcdd06c404b81b90c2cdbbdae5213\u0022\u003EBroadband\u2014Usage\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022 data-id=\u0022cddcd91e2caa451b9a5791bc63ee3d8d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000106\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003E7. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022cddcd91e2caa451b9a5791bc63ee3d8d\u0022\u003EMELISSA LEE (National)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Communications: What recent reports has she received on the use of broadband internet by New Zealanders?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022 data-id=\u002258dce4b801f54e90af1d72027a05a0fa\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000107\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002258dce4b801f54e90af1d72027a05a0fa\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS (Minister for Communications):\u003C/span\u003E Last month Statistics New Zealand released its annual internet service provider survey. This report shows the rapid change occurring. In just the last year New Zealand has tripled the number of fibre connections. Internet speeds are increasing, with twice the number of New Zealanders now able to access speeds over 24 megabits per second. We are using twice as much data. Businesses have also grabbed the opportunity that greater connectivity provides, with a tenfold increase in connections with large data plans. These results reiterate the importance of this Government\u2019s $2 billion commitment to faster broadband.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000108\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002242d0b2dfce4041309c382d43af3424c5\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: How\u2019s the update going?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000109\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d42cc3e9307b49fb8afd16718cb3d0fe\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS\u003C/span\u003E: Very well, thank you, Mr Cunliffe.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000110\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226641b863cd7e474daf70da2e9e4c5fb2\u0022\u003EMelissa Lee\u003C/span\u003E: What further steps is the Government taking to ensure a greater number of New Zealanders have access to faster internet and improved connectivity?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000111\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226f85e650df3248a5a749acc110bae441\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS\u003C/span\u003E: Although the statistics are improving, we think that more can be done to ensure as many New Zealanders as possible have access to improved broadband services. Our ultra-fast broadband and Rural Broadband Initiative programmes are ahead of schedule and within budget, and during the election National promised to extend the successful ultra-fast broadband programme to reach at least 80 percent of New Zealanders, an extra 200,000 people. We also promised to invest an additional $150 million in rural connectivity, covering improved rural connectivity, and a $50 million investment for mobile blackspots. This new investment will build on the already strong increase in connectivity that this Government is delivering.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000112\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002289f89cf8af894c80a53a2a2fd205673e\u0022\u003EState and Social Housing, Porirua\u2014Housing Stock\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022 data-id=\u00224fea2f6bee0944fb9240b6eb2b9649ea\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000113\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E8. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224fea2f6bee0944fb9240b6eb2b9649ea\u0022\u003EKRIS FAAFOI (Labour\u2014Mana)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister responsible for HNZC: How many Housing New Zealand properties along Esk Place and Hazard Grove in Porirua will be demolished and sold; and is he aware of any other planned Housing New Zealand sales in the Porirua area?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u00222361f05662b14da988703f6cdfe3d9c4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000114\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222361f05662b14da988703f6cdfe3d9c4\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Minister responsible for HNZC):\u003C/span\u003E Firstly, can I tell the member that decisions on the day-to-day management of these homes are an operational matter for Housing New Zealand, and the Minister does not make decisions. No decision has been made yet by Housing New Zealand regarding the use of land on these locations, but Housing New Zealand does advise that three vacant multi-unit blocks containing 15 units at Esk Place and Hazard Grove will be demolished. Housing New Zealand advises that a total 23 vacant properties are for sale in Porirua\u2014around 1 percent of the New Zealand housing properties, which number 2,681. I am pleased the member asked the question, because it highlights a number of aspects of what needs to change. Twenty of the 23 for sale are three-bedroom houses. The majority of the 63 people on the waiting list in Porirua want one-bedroom homes, not three-bedroom houses. So Housing New Zealand cannot really use those homes effectively for people off the waiting list. It needs to change its stock so it has one-bedroom homes for single-person households, not three-bedroom homes, which were appropriate 50 years ago. Housing New Zealand advises that it will reinvest according to need in Wellington and that may be in the Porirua area or it may be where demands for social housing are high.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000115\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002222e8cffc663d4d9e8a9680f35693e66f\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: Has the fact that these properties have been damaged while awaiting earthquake strengthening led to the decision to demolish and sell the land?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000116\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cee6ec1a4b204aeda64d21a392b5b151\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I simply cannot answer that question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000117\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002213e1faa30f9d43b5a7e3fa3ecf3f8915\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: Will all funds raised from the sale of Housing New Zealand properties along Esk Place and Hazard Grove be earmarked for the construction of new Housing New Zealand properties in the same community, or will it simply go into the consolidated account?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000118\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022226d56a491ec4682b5cfe2773b12c13a\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I think almost certainly these funds will be recirculated in Housing New Zealand Corporation. As I said, part of the reason there are 23 properties for sale in Porirua is because 20 of them are three-bedroom houses, and the people on the waiting list in that area are a majority of single-person households, so Housing New Zealand Corporation will be changing the nature of its stock across Wellington to accommodate the changing needs of the tenants. After all, I know it sometimes seems odd to the Labour Party, but we care more about the tenants and meeting their needs than about the Government owning houses that are no longer efficient or effective in meeting the housing needs in Porirua. What is the point in keeping all the three-bedroom houses when we do not have people who need them?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000119\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224639fb55c8054f63ad959810d5973d34\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I would like you to reflect on the answer the Minister just gave\u2014not the first part of the answer but the second part of the answer. That was a very straight, factual question from Kris Faafoi, which did not contain any attack on the Government. Instead, what we got from Bill English was a long dissertation on what he thought the Labour Party\u2019s position is. That is going to lead to a very lopsided question time if that sort of thing is going to continue.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000120\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d8f616cb10694c07a7486519a3f3d8dd\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I will certainly reflect on the answer that was given. The initial part of the Minister\u2019s answer was actually a very, very genuine attempt, in my opinion, to answer the question that was raised. I accept there was some political connotation in the latter half of the answer. I will have a look at it for the member.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000121\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c0965280329e477e908a2ec41004fc74\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: What is the profile of potential buyers of the land left vacant by demolitions on Esk Place and Hazard Grove?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000122\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229aa1f96e277f40dc9e711709678fc921\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I am not the local real estate agent so I cannot help, but I imagine there are many young New Zealand families who may find a three-bedroom house at reasonable value in Porirua quite an attractive option compared with others. We certainly do not agree with the Labour Party policy that the Government must continue to own those three-bedroom houses when there are not significant numbers of people on the waiting list who can use them. If the Labour Party thinks we should be putting single people into three-bedroom houses, then it does not understand what the tenants want. The tenants who live on their own want single or double-bedroom houses, not large, cold three-bedroom houses on big sections or in multiple blocks that they find hard to maintain. We are just trying to respond to tenant need. Labour is obsessed with owning all the State houses.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000123\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220472e7e898e24221a714111fa995035f\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The answer is long enough.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000124\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002235616483bc8d4698a75e507e4f558212\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: Why does the Government think that there will be interest from private investors in social housing on land left vacant by his planned demolitions at Esk Place and Hazard Grove, given there has been no interest from private investors in social housing for the nearby plot of barren land on Calliope Crescent, owned by Housing New Zealand?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000125\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022091e8d5d0a294e92a6d9158dad1a7fe9\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: Those are all matters for Housing New Zealand, but I do not see any reason why New Zealand families trying to get their feet on the bottom rung of the homeownership ladder, possibly with the assistance of the Government\u2019s Homestart package, would not be interested in three-bedroom units in Porirua or, if those units are demolished and something else is built, why they would not be interested in shifting there. I have great confidence in that community. It is a stable, community-orientated kind of place, which is attractive for families to move to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000126\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fe17e7fe77244f97800914741dd8ad5d\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave to table two documents, the first one being a photo of some vacant houses that will be soon demolished on Esk Grove\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000127\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eb4ca4eb8ccd4df0ab247dcc753b5ab7\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! That information will not help the House. [Interruption] Order! What is the second document the member wants to table?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000128\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022427f7f35b27b447fbe10a9fc4d2d6289\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: This is a picture of the vacant land\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000129\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022badba819339b41879a354e93749f257b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! The member will resume his seat. The member needs to have a look at the Standing Orders and the reason for tabling documents\u2014[Interruption] Order! When I am speaking to the member I do not expect him to continue interjecting. The purpose of tabling documents is if it is something that is informative to the House and something that is difficult for members to obtain. The purpose of tabling documents is not to further make a political point.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000130\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002241359378cd274d0f9e801238e138ae94\u0022\u003EBetter Public Services Targets\u2014Reduction in Reoffending\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022 data-id=\u002297e84d50e7034eb2b94fa703436d31f9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000131\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003E9. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002297e84d50e7034eb2b94fa703436d31f9\u0022\u003EKANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI (National)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Corrections: How is the Department of Corrections working to meet the Government\u2019s Better Public Services target of reducing re-offending by 25 percent by 2017?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002219bcf2ff-a193-4361-9072-813a4e36683c\u0022 data-id=\u0022c4cd4cb39ff7412f8110d664039987f8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000132\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219bcf2ff-a193-4361-9072-813a4e36683c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c4cd4cb39ff7412f8110d664039987f8\u0022\u003EHon Peseta SAM LOTU-IIGA (Minister of Corrections):\u003C/span\u003E The Department of Corrections is working hard through a targeted and innovative programme of initiatives to meet our Better Public Services target of reducing reoffending by 25 percent by 2017. This will mean 4,600 fewer offenders returning to the corrections system and 18,500 fewer victims of crime by 2017. We are doing that by investing in programmes such as increased alcohol and drug abuse treatment, greater access to education, skills training, employment programmes, expanded reintegration services, and innovative rehabilitation programmes for prisoners. We are committed to working with our partners in the community and across the justice public and private sectors to move people away from a life of crime and, ultimately, away from a life in prison.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000133\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022724c0d7a6f7c461dab39c38a6d74dfcb\u0022\u003EKanwaljit Singh Bakshi\u003C/span\u003E: Why is alcohol and drug abuse treatment so important in helping to reduce reoffending?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000134\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219bcf2ff-a193-4361-9072-813a4e36683c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f03c7ed79e384de1bcc0f581fdc3f90d\u0022\u003EHon Peseta SAM LOTU-IIGA\u003C/span\u003E: Good question. Drug and alcohol abuse is a major driver of crime. More than half of New Zealand prisoners have substance abuse problems, and more than 50 percent of crime is committed by people under the influence of drugs and alcohol. We have made remarkable progress to date on tackling this issue. In 2013-14 alone there were 24,678 alcohol and other drug interventions delivered to prisoners and community-based offenders. This is a 95 percent increase on the previous year, and a 105-fold increase on interventions delivered in 2008 under the Labour Government. As the new Minister, I will be putting a special focus on these particular programmes by tackling this issue and breaking the cycle of dependence. We can help people lead a life free of crime once they leave prison.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000135\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ca286a86ec494152bfff21cbbe47f361\u0022\u003EAccident Compensation\u2014Fraud\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220daaf9fb-1a1f-4d31-848a-fd13cb1a2c5a\u0022 data-id=\u002298fb91c3845e4a1dbc4c20101095616e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000136\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220daaf9fb-1a1f-4d31-848a-fd13cb1a2c5a\u0022\u003E10. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002298fb91c3845e4a1dbc4c20101095616e\u0022\u003EBARBARA STEWART (NZ First)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for ACC: What is ACC\u2019s latest estimate of fraud occurring within the scheme, and what percentage of this fraud is being detected?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022 data-id=\u0022f208a45124604f1fb8a52c054c675efc\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000137\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f208a45124604f1fb8a52c054c675efc\u0022\u003EHon NIKKI KAYE (Minister for ACC):\u003C/span\u003E I am advised that ACC estimates fraud by a measure that looks at projected savings made as a result of fraud investigations. For the 2013-14 financial year, ACC identified projected savings to the scheme due to fraud investigations of $23.6 million. If the member was to compare this in terms of total claims paid, $23 million would represent about 0.8 percent.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000138\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220daaf9fb-1a1f-4d31-848a-fd13cb1a2c5a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223e56a7314c124f6a8c90fb5a389e25fa\u0022\u003EBarbara Stewart\u003C/span\u003E: How many staff does ACC have to counter fraud within the scheme?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000139\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ce6aa6b8a1924f8d8c886e51f625e0a7\u0022\u003EHon NIKKI KAYE\u003C/span\u003E: Forty.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000140\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220daaf9fb-1a1f-4d31-848a-fd13cb1a2c5a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227a8ecc4873fd42909b411ef0712f5e86\u0022\u003EBarbara Stewart\u003C/span\u003E: What confidence can the public have in ACC estimates of fraud, given the recent New Zealand Herald revelation of a draft Serious Fraud Office report indicating fraud on a massive scale with the ACC scheme, and the poor performance in this area of the former Minister for ACC?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000141\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002202d83e057552460796ffbf9ab6f97a8b\u0022\u003EHon NIKKI KAYE\u003C/span\u003E: I believe that the public can actually have huge confidence. As I said before in the House, that was a survey of about 2,000 files, and what was very clear was that that was not 8 to 10 percent in terms of fraudulent files; that was 8 to 10 percent of files that needed another look. Just to give the member an explanation on that, it might be that they saw an increase in billing hours, for example, but when they looked behind that, they saw a range of reasons\u2014perhaps more people were employed. So I think people can have a lot of confidence that that was a ropey report and that ACC is doing a huge amount in this area.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000142\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002290593f896b194a819011f5da6d833d98\u0022\u003EPrime Minister\u2014Separation of Roles\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022 data-id=\u00221fe4d53a1cf8495abeded35a8bb0580c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000143\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003E11. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221fe4d53a1cf8495abeded35a8bb0580c\u0022\u003EDr MEGAN WOODS (Labour\u2014Wigram)\u003C/span\u003E to the Prime Minister: When he said \u201Csomeone told me\u201D in an answer to Oral Question 12 on 29 October 2014 regarding the transfer of information from himself in his capacity as party leader to himself as Prime Minister, who was that person?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022 data-id=\u0022611c28a30d684c628d9ea1bbb6475d2b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000144\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022611c28a30d684c628d9ea1bbb6475d2b\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY (Prime Minister):\u003C/span\u003E You have got me\u2014it was me. I did it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000145\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222f15c369aaa046e09d6e010f2f66ed8d\u0022\u003EDr Megan Woods\u003C/span\u003E: Given the Ombudsman has previously ruled in relation to the divide between party leader and Prime Minister that distinguishing between information generated in one capacity or another is primarily a matter of fact and can be established in the circumstances of a case, what are the facts and circumstances that distinguish his communications with Cameron Slater as being undertaken as party leader rather than as Prime Minister?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000146\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e28c1965169d4594bdb8a476bc4ac04f\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: It is pretty clear, if you want to go and have a look at Jonathan Hunt\u2019s ruling, that he makes it quite clear that the Prime Minister is answerable for any statements made as Prime Minister, but the Prime Minister is not answerable for actions taken in a non-ministerial capacity, whether as Leader of the Opposition or leader of a political party. I fondly remember Helen Clark making that distinction to this House for a very long period of time in relation to taxpayer money that was used for a Labour Party pledge card. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000147\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f4a6688708044f0bafa36e031e61eced\u0022\u003EDr Megan Woods\u003C/span\u003E: What were the facts and circumstances that meant he decided that the Hon Maurice Williamson was acting as a Minister when he called the police regarding Donghua Liu, even though the former Minister claimed he was acting in his capacity as a National Party MP?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000148\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a7431be5b2644a01bcc4d7a67327e69e\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: That is a determination that I make in relation to someone\u2019s capacity to hold a ministerial warrant. A ministerial warrant is held by a member at the pleasure of the Prime Minister. It has got nothing to do with the demarcation line. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000149\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022020a87c1ab3f42a2beb3ad9dab12a561\u0022\u003EDr Megan Woods\u003C/span\u003E: When Judith Collins talked with Cameron Slater while she was a Minister, was she acting in her role as a Minister?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000150\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c7e4f70778c14d278f6f59de69a21d55\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: You will have to ask her. [Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000151\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002236deb83215ca48609cdfb92bca6cb9cc\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I want to assist the colleague to my left. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000152\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002286fb07c1fbc0423f82a172af70a70e54\u0022\u003EDr Megan Woods\u003C/span\u003E: Given that he has implied that he has discussed with Ministers their interactions with Cameron Slater, as stated in written question No. 7441, how did he have discussions with Ministers not in his capacity as Prime Minister?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000153\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f607172f22864cc7987bfc7f9c2930d6\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: I do not have that particular question in front of me, so I cannot repeat the question because I do not have it in front of me, but it is quite clear that it is possible\u2014in fact, it happens all the time\u2014for a person in my position to hold a variety of different authorities. One is as Prime Minister, one is as leader of the National Party, one is as MP for Helensville, and one is as an individual citizen. That is exactly what Helen Clark said. The reason that Megan Woods has been put up to ask these questions is that no person who was around when Helen Clark was\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000154\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d62c5a0a468f4bccb95f607bbf6915a9\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000155\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002224068aa6f21a47cc87ae1aa24932e6b0\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. [Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000156\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cdbb709194044d71acc7baf373a0d934\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I am just assisting the member to get some silence before I hear the point of order. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000157\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f496b463d77d44299596c7a5d9d7b36a\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave, in regard to the Prime Minister\u2019s answer, to table the Sigmund Freud 1921 thesis on the mental condition of people who talk to themselves. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000158\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a47fcacf68ab4ab3859905054a836375\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: And we are not about to waste time by putting that leave. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000159\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220083bcaa-f44d-4b70-97de-d091a209b88c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226d2545cd26824ad4a96a25f56bbe2cc6\u0022\u003ERt Hon JOHN KEY\u003C/span\u003E: Speaking to the point of order\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000160\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022de20e69d753d4cbfa206d2ca820a3d7b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I have dealt with that matter. If the member wants to raise\u2014[Interruption] Order! I have dealt with that matter. Question No. 12, Todd Barclay. [Interruption] Order! Can the House please settle so we can get\u2014[Interruption] Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000161\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00223d81134c72534c97956dbcbdd98d35c6\u0022\u003ERenewable Energy\u2014Wood Energy South\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002277333e3c-5658-4149-9cad-262a0deed378\u0022 data-id=\u00220f32c09924034e94890cae53ab3a5c7d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000162\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002277333e3c-5658-4149-9cad-262a0deed378\u0022\u003E12. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220f32c09924034e94890cae53ab3a5c7d\u0022\u003ETODD BARCLAY (National\u2014Clutha-Southland)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Energy and Resources: What update can he give on Government-funded renewable energy initiatives?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022 data-id=\u00222189f56f4d1949519d499d0b95cfbf2c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000163\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222189f56f4d1949519d499d0b95cfbf2c\u0022\u003EHon SIMON BRIDGES (Minister of Energy and Resources):\u003C/span\u003E Last week I was pleased to welcome and support the launch of New Zealand\u2019s first region-wide wood energy heat hub in Southland. The Wood Energy South hub is a joint venture between the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority and Venture Southland that will see them partner with local businesses, schools, and health care facilities to help them convert to cleaner renewable wood energy. The hub will also work with forestry companies and fuel suppliers to establish a sustainable supply chain using some of the 300,000 tonnes of wood waste generated in Southland each year. This is a unique opportunity for Southland to be a leader in the use of the renewable energy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000164\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002277333e3c-5658-4149-9cad-262a0deed378\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ca179d62b3c34018888871eab2d0aece\u0022\u003ETodd Barclay\u003C/span\u003E: What savings are expected as a result of the Wood Energy South hub initiative in Southland?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000165\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ae1dae81e5dd41d4a7cb7f69da6ad721\u0022\u003EHon SIMON BRIDGES\u003C/span\u003E: From a modest investment by the Government of $1.5 million, with private investment expected to at least match this funding, we expect up to 8,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year could be saved. This is equivalent to taking 2,500 cars off the road. The renewable heat hub initiative is just one of four programmes the Government has committed $5 million to, to encourage businesses to become more energy efficient and reduce their carbon footprints. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000166\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022e9028ec83ad2492dba4b8c89b42118d0\u0022\u003EStandards and Accreditation Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000167\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ecbaf1447966490aa6ce223dee9682ca\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022 data-id=\u00227af771761bc740de8a8aead785bb0f43\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000168\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227af771761bc740de8a8aead785bb0f43\u0022\u003EHon PAUL GOLDSMITH (Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Standards and Accreditation Bill be now read a first time. I nominate the Commerce Committee to consider the bill. At the appropriate time, I intend to move that the bill be reported to the House by 31 March 2015. This bill puts in place new arrangements for the development and approval of standards in New Zealand, and makes minor amendments to the institutional arrangements for the Testing Laboratory Registration Council. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000169\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EA review of New Zealand\u2019s standards regime was triggered in 2012 by the Standards Council\u2019s not being financially sustainable in the medium to long term. The review found that there is a need to improve the responsiveness of the current arrangements for delivering standards in New Zealand to better meet the needs of business consumers and regulators, and to increase the contribution to the Government\u2019s objectives, such as economic growth, international trade, innovation, and health and safety\u2014for example, feedback from users included a desire to speed up the development of standards, to maintain the currency of the Standards Catalogue, and to keep pace with changes in technology and best practice. There was also an expectation for the standards to be more readily accessible online. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000170\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EWithout the bill, standards developed in New Zealand are not likely to remain fit for purpose over time\u2014for example, standards that are cited in a regulation could be out of date, which would result in poor health and safety outcomes. This legislation will ensure New Zealand\u2019s standards and conformance system is viable and well-functioning, and meets the needs of business regulators and consumers into the foreseeable future. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000171\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EUnder the new arrangements, approval of standards and standards development committees will be undertaken by a new, independent statutory board called the New Zealand Standards Approval Board. A new, independent statutory officer, the NZ Standards Executive, will be responsible for standards development, including the formation of balanced development committees. The bill also explicitly preserves and strengthens some key aspects of the current arrangements\u2014for example, balanced, independent committees consisting of experts from across the relevant sector will continue to develop and revise standards. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000172\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003ETo protect the robust reputation of New Zealand standards and ensure that they remain internationally authoritative and credible, independence from industry regulators and the Government has been built into every part of the system. The board will make decisions on standards and committee membership with regard to clear criteria in the legislation. Neither the board nor the NZ Standards Executive will be subject to the direction of the responsible Minister. The board will advise the Minister on standards, the standards work programme, and current and emerging trends in standards. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000173\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EThe NZ Standards Executive will be an independent statutory officer located within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and will be subject to public accountability requirements and the scrutiny of the Ombudsman. The Standards Executive will have functions to establish and maintain a work programme for the development, maintenance, and review of standards, as well as to make arrangements for public access to standards. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000174\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003ELocating the standards development function within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is expected to help ensure that standards contribute more effectively to innovation, economic growth, international trade, and health and safety. Further, this move should facilitate more effective coordination with regulators who are key commissioners and users of standards, and enhance the visibility and credibility of standards within other parts of Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000175\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EIt is vital for New Zealand to maintain its linkages with the international standards community, including the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission. The functions of the NZ Standards Executive include assuming responsibility for New Zealand\u2019s membership of these international organisations, and cooperating with international standards organisations to develop draft standards. Standards development and approval will continue to be undertaken in accordance with guidance from the ISO and the International Electrotechnical Commission, and will continue to meet New Zealand\u2019s obligations in relation to the World Trade Organization Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade. These international obligations are integrated into the statutory criteria that will guide the board\u2019s decisions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000176\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EFinally, the bill strengthens the current cost-recovery model for standards. It provides a framework to enable the NZ Standards Executive to set fees for access to standards, and to recover the costs associated with developing, approving, maintaining and providing access to New Zealand standards. The framework provides a balance between the initial development cost and ongoing access costs for particular standards to be negotiated and agreed between the NZ Standards Executive and those commissioning New Zealand standards. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000177\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EThe bill also specifies principles that the NZ Standards Executive must have regard to in setting the fees or charges for cost recovery\u2014namely equity, efficiency, transparency, and flexibility. Collectively, these measures are intended to ensure the standards system is financially sustainable, with flexibility in the recovery of costs available through a negotiated combination of development and access costs with those who commission standards. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000178\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EThe bill makes minor amendments to the Copyright Act 1994 to maintain existing copyright protection for standards. This is important to protect the intellectual property of third parties, including that of international parties used in New Zealand standards. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000179\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EIn relation to accreditation, the bill renames the Testing Laboratory Registration Council as the Accreditation Council to better reflect the nature of its functions. It also changes the composition and appointment process for the council, in accordance with good governance principles. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000180\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EIn conclusion, standards and accreditation of conformity assessment facilitate trade, promote innovation, and enable firms to leverage competitive advantage. As noted, standards are also often cited in legislation and thereby support the Government\u2019s regulatory outcomes. The new arrangements will ensure that the value and contribution of standards and conformity assessment to New Zealand\u2019s trade and overall well-being continues and is maximised. These arrangements for standards and accreditation will contribute to the Business Growth Agenda in two ways: first, a well-managed standards system builds innovation by facilitating the creation and diffusion of technology by codifying technical excellence; and, second, the new arrangements support exports by preserving New Zealand\u2019s connections to international standards organisations and ensuring international expectations are met. The new arrangements will also provide a high-quality service to business, reflecting the Government\u2019s priority for efficient business-facing services. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000181\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002253f86481-33c1-48b2-893b-c11cc0bd673d\u0022\u003EI look forward to progressing this bill through the House. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022 data-id=\u002286626bd48a8148e3aba22ac4c653720d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000182\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002286626bd48a8148e3aba22ac4c653720d\u0022\u003EHon CLAYTON COSGROVE (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I am pleased to see that down at the back the new members were not chloroformed by that speech by Paul Goldsmith, because it was a cracker. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000183\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EI commend the new Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Unlike Mr Foss, he has grabbed his second piece of legislation and introduced it in the House. But I do make this point to the Minister. This bill is an interesting one because, of course, it was introduced in a different form by the Labour Government in 2008 to modernise and simplify the Government\u2019s arrangements of the Standards Council and Testing Laboratory Registration Council and to separate their governance and technical advisory functions. So it was introduced in 2008. This crew comes into power\u2014I think it was Mr Foss or maybe Mr Power; I am not sure\u2014and the bill languished, and was canned by the Government in 2012. And then, after 6 years of reviews, discussions, interactions, reports, and a whole lot of other hot air, we come back now to a piece of legislation that establishes a so-called independent statutory board to approve New Zealand standards. And finally this is being read in the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000184\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EWell, I have got to say to the new Minister that he is better than the last guy, because we know that the last Minister\u2019s legislation was sort of like trying to pull barbed wire off a fence, as his legislation sort of trundled through and was delayed and delayed. So I do commend the Minister, not so much for the esprit de corps, the zing, and the vibrancy of his speech on such a colourful topic as New Zealand standards, but for bringing it into the House with some swiftness. But I need to ask him\u2014and I am sure he or other speakers will advise us of this\u2014why, after such a long gestation period, 6 long years of almost total inaction except for a lot of hot air, there is an expedited reporting date of 31 March. It could be that the Minister has decided: \u201CHey, this has sat around long enough. My predecessor let it gather dust, mould and other biological bits of matter, and we\u2019re going to punch it through.\u201D Or could it be that he has adopted a model\u2014and I think this is true, judging by some of the commentary\u2014that is out of step with what those outside the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, those in the standards industry, would want? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000185\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EWe will support this bill\u2019s referral to a select committee because we want to allow those outside entities, and those individuals who are experts and are not in the bureaucracy but in the real world, to have their say on this piece of legislation. But it is a worry that a piece of legislation, or the entity contained within it, the standards authority, is on the one hand called independent, but on the other hand, according to the option the Government has gone for, it is embedded inside the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, which I am advised\u2014looking at some of the independent commentary\u2014is exactly what many of the external experts did not want. They wanted total independence because it is important, on a more serious note, that we take standards seriously. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000186\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EWe note from the evidence from the tragedy of Pike River that where poor standards of operational practice are implemented, you can get, you do get, and you have got, sadly, the tragedy that is Pike River. One could make the same argument in respect of some aspects of building practice\u2014perhaps in respect of the Canterbury earthquake. Those are some issues that are yet to be tested, I think, in other places. But I just wonder why the Minister has adopted this model. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000187\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EWhy did he not move to have a standards entity and agency that was totally independent from the Government bureaucracy? Yes, that may well indeed come with a cost, and, yes, I note from the legislation that it establishes a new, independent statutory board to approve New Zealand standards. I grant him that. But one would have assumed that the board, and all the tentacles that will hang off it in terms of its committee, its authorities, its approval, etc., would have had more credibility had it been completely independent and outside the bureaucracy. This is now the embedded model and, as I say to the Minister, this is the feedback that we have had from those outside who are deeply concerned that we get this right\u2014and I think this is not a particularly political bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000188\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EI think we all agree there should be high standards when it comes to operational performance, and many of the examples of where we have been let down give evidence to this. However, I think there will be some colourful debate about the particular model the Government has chosen. I would have thought that when standards are being put in place you would want not just statutory independence but also to be seen to have total independence from the bureaucracy whose authority is derived from the Crown. Then when those standards are approved, declined, or put in place, it means that they are done independently and they have huge credibility and weight. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000189\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EI simply say to the Minister that I would be grateful if at some point\u2014and I am sure it will come through the select committee process, via the officials\u2014he or his department could give some justification for this. It may be there is a good reason. I hope the reason is not just simply a bit of cost saving, a bit of efficiency, and moving a few chairs around in the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. I think the objective here, cross-party, is to ensure we get a robust agency to approve, decline, and police standards across the board, in all the areas that the Minister has mentioned, and especially in respect of safety\u2014especially in respect of safety. Sadly, through Pike River, tragically, through aspects of the earthquake, and in other places, like forestry, the ports\u2014you name it\u2014all these issues derive from standards of operational performance. I would have thought we would want not only to achieve the highest possible standards but to achieve them in a way that they would have total independence, and that they would be free from any sort of implied or direct influence from Government or the bureaucracy, and therefore they would have huge credibility. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000190\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EI say to the Minister that we would like an explanation on this because we want to get it right. I say again that poor standards implemented well can lead to disaster, and they have done. I think, as we have moved through the Pike River tragedy and, as the commission has reported, through the earthquake, and as we have moved through those sorts of graphic examples where there have been systems failures\u2014one derived from mother Nature, obviously\u2014where buildings, for instance, did not live up to what we perceived they would do, then surely that is the appropriate motivation to ensure that we get this thing right. Having an expedited reporting period, I cannot quite understand\u201431 March. Given that this issue has hung around in various forms, that it has almost sort of rotted in terms of stagnation, I cannot understand why the Minister would want to somehow snap his fingers and punch something through. The point of going through the legislative process, and especially the select committee process in respect of a bill like this, is to get all those experts in, to get them to have a very, very close look at this legislation, and to get it right. There is even greater emphasis on a bill like this, because it is about standards in various guises, but particularly safety standards. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000191\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EI would have thought we would want to take the appropriate time to go through the legislation and to ensure that we get it right. Or are we, you know\u2014excuse the pun\u2014dropping our own standards of performance in terms of processing legislation because the Government has made up its mind that this is the model we are going to enact? \u201CWe have got it right. We will go through the motions of listening to the so-called independent experts. But we are going to do it anyway, so let us not mess around. Let us punch through it.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EI have always been of the belief that independent contestable advice put up against the bureaucracy has a massively high value\u2014massively high value. Our courts are independent for a very good reason. But this is about an agency setting and approving standards, which can be extremely controversial, depending on what industry you are dealing with, and a heck of a lot of lobbying goes on. But I would have thought you would want to give this agency almost the stature, if you like, of an Ombudsman or the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment so that they are totally removed from the bureaucracy and, therefore, by definition, the Government, thereby raising the standard and raising the credibility of that authority as they go through and impose or decline the highest possible standards\u2014for instance, to keep our citizenry safe. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000193\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003EI do not like the fact that the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is going to be so close. I do not like the fact that it is going to have certain powers as mentioned in this legislation. There should be, I think, total independence. But I welcome the Minister\u2019s input. I welcome the department\u2019s justification during the select committee process. My appeal to the Minister is that he take on board those experts who will come before the Commerce Committee, that he will take on board their views, and that he will not rush this process. If we do need more time, then my plea to him is that he give us that time in order to get it right.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022 data-id=\u002283f2538ba4c64b299b7f129b5f6b1c57\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000194\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002283f2538ba4c64b299b7f129b5f6b1c57\u0022\u003EMELISSA LEE (National):\u003C/span\u003E This is my first opportunity to speak as the newly appointed chair of the Commerce Committee, so I would like to start by acknowledging the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, the Hon Paul Goldsmith, for bringing this bill to the House. I would like to start off by commending the member who just sat down, Clayton Cosgrove. I will be working closely with him in the Commerce Committee and I look forward to having discussions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000195\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003EWe hold high standards in this Parliament. When I got this bill and I was told I had to actually speak on it, I started thinking about standards. I thought I could start off with comments about keeping standards in the Labour Party, but I thought that would be overly political. I thought I had better not comment about the Labour leadership. I thought I had better not start off with the Labour leadership and thought that I should actually speak about the bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000196\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003EThe aim of the bill is to amend and consolidate the law relating to standards and conformity assessment bodies and to repeal and replace the Standards Act 1988 and also the Testing Laboratory Registration Act 1972, among others. The reason we are doing this is to make sure that the New Zealand standards systems are actually viable, well functioning, and meet the needs of the businesses, regulators, and consumers\u2014I guess pretty much futureproofing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000197\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003EWhen Mr Cosgrove talked about having standards to make sure that New Zealanders are kept safe, I agreed with him. We have had some disasters in this country where good standards might have actually prevented some of those disasters. I look forward to the submissions during the select committee process when we will hear from experts and from communities as to what kinds of standards we actually need to have in this country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000198\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003EI think the importance of bringing this bill is that the National-led Government has always been focused on boosting growth and creating jobs. This has been said over and over again, but I reiterate that a strong economy can provide financial security for families, opportunities for our young people, safer communities, higher qualifications for our children, and better education and health services, which are required by all New Zealanders. A more productive and competitive economy actually needs standards\u2014from product standards to building standards, energy safety, environmental management, and information technology standards as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000199\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003EI know that Mr Cosgrove talked about wanting an independent standards authority, but there is also another view. We deal with a lot of overseas nations. We trade with them. Sometimes, with regard to standards, a Government entity is better recognised than an independent one. There will be different views from the different organisations that will actually submit, so I look forward to those discussions that we will have in the select committee process. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000200\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003EGenerally, standards are voluntary, but standards can be mandatory when it is actually cited in Acts and regulations that there are agreed specifications for products, processes, services, and performances. For example, if an electrical product is marked as meeting a particular standard, it actually means that it is meeting the minimum safety standard requirements. This bill will establish a new independent statutory board to approve New Zealand standards with a new independent statutory officer from within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, as has been said. The bill will also ensure that an independent standard development committee will continue to comprise industry and technical experts, consumer representatives, and regulators. This is a good bill. I commend it to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022 data-id=\u00227728f1d76e1d4938aaf7c85ba3934e60\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000201\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227728f1d76e1d4938aaf7c85ba3934e60\u0022\u003ECLARE CURRAN (Labour\u2014Dunedin South):\u003C/span\u003E I would like to offer my congratulations to Melissa Lee as the new chair of the Commerce Committee. Let us hope that the standards on the Commerce Committee remain high. I think that Clayton Cosgrove\u2019s contribution in the House today has set the standard for discussion on bills that go before that committee\u2014that august committee where there is much intelligent conversation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000202\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ead2680f9e0d43f48aabb5be64a821d5\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: August.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000203\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002247fe7234d67346c4ac5ca50d5073fdfb\u0022\u003ECLARE CURRAN\u003C/span\u003E: August\u2014and I do hope that that continues. I just want to quickly give the House a little bit of a history lesson around the Standards and Accreditation Bill, because it appears, in the way it has been couched today by the Government, that it somehow miraculously came out of a review that happened in 2012, initiated by the Government. Well, that is not the case. This is actually legislation that stems back to the previous Labour Government and a review that was undertaken then by the then Minister of Commerce, the Hon Lianne Dalziel. If I recall, having sat on the Commerce Committee with her for the first 3 years in Opposition, she was extremely passionate about standards, about the importance of standards, and about the lack of action that was happening in this Government around the modernisation of standards and the governance of standards. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000204\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EThankfully, we are now at the point of having gone through a review. That review in 2012, just by the way, actually attracted 115 submissions. I can say they were quite intense submissions, having had a chance to go through them all, and if that is any indication of the importance that this issue is given by the community, then I think that what we are going to see in the select committee is a replication of that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000205\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EI would like to echo my colleague Clayton Cosgrove\u2019s view that pushing this bill through without the proper scrutiny would be a big mistake. The standards underpinning any industry activity in our country need to be standards that are robust. Therefore, the body that creates those standards, maintains them, and keeps a watchful eye on them needs to be a body that has the respect, trust, integrity, and also resources required to ensure that it actually does the job. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000206\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EThat brings me to my questions. It pretty much appears that the option that is being pushed by the Government to move the standards body function to within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is actually driven by cost cutting\u2014a desire to actually reduce the costs of running a standards body. If that is the case, then I have got a problem with that. We are supporting this bill\u2019s referral to a select committee, but that will be one of the issues we will be keeping a very close eye on. We will be listening to what the industry says because of those 115 submissions on that review, the vast majority were very concerned about moving the standards function to within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and creating a standards officer, or whatever the term being used is\u2014a standards statutory officer role within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. My question is whether that is adequate. Is that actually going to do the job, and is there going to be the strength and the weight behind that function within the ministry to actually maintain that job?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000207\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EThese are some of the things the submitters said. They did not think that pushing the function within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment would achieve the necessary independence. They said that independence could not be achieved under this model, that there was the possibility of capture by well-resourced and influential stakeholders, that the New Zealand Standards Approval Board could not be fully impartial when both assessing standards and approving standards development organisations to develop standards, and that statutory independence is not possible if members of the standards board are appointed by the Government. I think that there has been some taking account of those views in the response by the ministry and in the legislation we see before us, but I am not sure that that is enough. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000208\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EThe second point is linked to that. It is around cost. Even the regulatory impact statement itself says on its first page: \u201CThe advice we have received suggested that overall costs of Standards development can be reduced by moving the function into a larger organisation.\u201D What that suggests, and what I fear, is that that is the main reason for doing it\u2014that it is actually being driven not by common sense or by wanting to improve the service, but by the desire to cut costs. If that is the case, and if we are talking about environmental standards and building standards, these things are pretty important because they underpin the way that we operate and they underpin the trust we have in our industries in the way they are carried out. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000209\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EThe third point that I would like to make\u2014the third issue\u2014is in regard to the amendment of the Copyright Act, which is a pretty significant part. It is not covered very greatly in the legislation that is before us or by the words of the Minister today, but it is obviously of enough significance to have its own regulatory impact statement produced by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, which I have to say does give me some concern because the proposed new organisation\u2019s home is going to be within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. So I will put that on the record as a concern in the first place. It would seem to me that the regulatory impact statement could have been produced independently through an audit by Treasury or something in order to actually provide some true independence. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000210\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EAn issue that was raised around what is proposed is that the bill is amending section 27 of the Copyright Act 1994, as stated in the explanatory note, \u201Cto maintain existing copyright protections for standards. This amendment is important to protect intellectual property owned by third parties (including international parties) and \u2026 to remove uncertainty in the application of copyright or Crown copyright in New Zealand Standards \u2026 as a result of moving the standards development function into a Ministry.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000211\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EThat all sounds, on the surface, perfectly reasonable. The concerns that were raised by the Standards Council around this potential move were that copyright in standards is a key issue and that discussions have focused on international intellectual property and royalty arrangements and the need to honour obligations and enforcement in copyright. It does appear as if the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has gone to some lengths to try to work out what those issues are and how they can be addressed, and to propose an option that provides copyright protection similar to the current standards, and legislative certainty to eliminate risk of standards becoming freely available. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000212\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EMy concern, though\u2014and it is what I will be raising in the committee, and I will be hoping and am pretty sure that there will submitters on this\u2014is whether it is not time that we looked at this a bit differently. Is it not time that we stopped looking at this from within a prism of solely protection and looked at the availability and opening up of copyright and open standards? It was Labour\u2019s policy going into the election to take standards seriously and to take a modern approach to this with the aim of moving towards genuine openness and transparency in Government\u2014which this Government says it is doing, but in practice I have got grave concerns it is not\u2014where thoroughly documented, open standards are made publicly available at no cost. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000213\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003EThis is not new. It follows the UK Government\u2019s definition of open standards. I think it is something that we need to have a conversation about in the select committee. If we are to be a truly modern Government and if we are doing a lot of stuff electronically online, there are questions about how open these standards should be, and we need to go back to some parts of the first-principles discussion around copyright protection. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000214\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222aa0b524-c38d-45aa-bd5b-99c5927085f4\u0022\u003ESo I think there are some significant issues that we need to put on the table for the select committee. Some of these issues around copyright were raised in the submissions to the review that led to this legislation. I just hope that the Minister and the officials are listening. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022 data-id=\u00221bf1febaecea4aee9372f149e79c742e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000215\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221bf1febaecea4aee9372f149e79c742e\u0022\u003EBRETT HUDSON (National):\u003C/span\u003E It is a privilege to be able to stand and speak in favour of this bill at its first reading. This National Government is focused on boosting growth and on creating more and higher-paying jobs. Standards contribute to a more productive and more competitive economy. They improve the safety and reliability of many goods and services used by consumers and businesses every day. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000216\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EThis Standards and Accreditation Bill is part of our Business Growth Agenda and it strengthens the development and delivery of New Zealand standards. A well-managed standards system builds innovation by facilitating the creation and diffusion of technology, by codifying technical excellence, and by protecting that which New Zealand businesses create. Secondly, the arrangements that are proposed support exports by preserving New Zealand\u2019s connections to international standards organisations and ensuring that the expectations of the international community are met. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000217\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EI would like to commend the pragmatism and insight of the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs in proposing under this bill the independence that matters the most: statutory independence of the board and of the executive officer. Granting them that statutory independence will mean that both can operate with neither fear nor favour of any undue influence\u2014or any influence at all, in fact\u2014from the responsible Minister, from officials, or, indeed, from the department they might share quarters with. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000218\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EBut I tell you what: that is a very pragmatic decision because the alternative, of course, would simply be to squander taxpayer money on duplicate systems, duplicate real estate, and duplicate facilities for no good purpose. It would give nothing greater to the powers or to the actions and outcomes of either that board or that individual if they happened to be housed in their own building. But what I would say is that by locating the function within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, it is anticipated that it will ensure that the standards that they are working on reviewing, proposing, and approving are linked more effectively to the innovation, the economic growth, and the international trade that this country is seeking to expand upon. So I do congratulate the Minister on a very pragmatic approach to very important issues. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000219\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EI would also like to comment very briefly on the cost recovery measure that has been proposed. That is going to strengthen the ability of the NZ Standards Executive to set fees that have regard to equity, efficiency, transparency, and flexibility. It will also make sure that the standards that we develop and need to maintain are, in fact, adequately catered for and that both his role and the board\u2019s role can be discharged effectively. So I would just like to conclude by saying that I think this is a sound and pragmatic bill. I commend it to the House. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022 data-id=\u0022c76ae47e1e01467fae41395da5925ec5\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000220\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c76ae47e1e01467fae41395da5925ec5\u0022\u003EJAMES SHAW (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to offer the Green Party\u2019s support for the Standards and Accreditation Bill being read a first time and referred to the Commerce Committee for the consideration of submissions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000221\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EI was lucky some years ago to do a piece of work for the British Standards Institution exploring the development of a new standard for ethical fashion\u2014in other words, items of clothing that conformed to fair trade, organic cotton, non-chemical dyes, etc. This is only one of several tens of thousands of standards that the British Standards Institution had developed and maintained over time. The British Standards Institution is probably the world\u2019s leading institution in this field, and I am sure that it will be an example that will be examined by those who are working on this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000222\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EThere comes a time when any piece of legislation should be reviewed to ensure that it is still fit for purpose, and both the Standards Act and the Testing Laboratory Registration Act have been on the statute book for almost as long as I have been alive\u2014since 1988 and 1972 respectively\u2014so it is pleasing that in 2012 the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment took the initiative to undertake a review of those legislative provisions, and, during the review process, undertook extensive consultation with stakeholders. It did find that the current provisions were no longer fit for purpose and that change was required to the national standards body because, in particular, it was not financially sustainable within its current business model, given its operating environment. This is hardly surprising, given, for example, that a Testing Laboratory Registration Council - accredited laboratory is now a requirement for over $20 billion of New Zealand\u2019s exports, which was something that probably was not foreseen in 1972, when its Act was passed. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000223\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EThe Green Party acknowledges that a well-functioning standards system must have sufficient flexibility to align with Government priorities, such as innovation and trade facilitation. However, we also would like to stress the point that is contained in this draft bill of keeping the actual process of developing standards independent and free from interference by Ministers or ministries. That is essential in order to maintain the integrity of our standards and to maintain public confidence in them, both in New Zealand and among our trading partners. In that regard, I think that the Government has got the balance just about right with this bill, by maintaining the statutory independence of the new New Zealand Standards Approval Board, the NZ Standards Executive, and the Accreditation Council from the Minister and the ministry. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000224\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EOne aspect that I would question is whether it is appropriate for the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to appoint the entirety of the membership of the New Zealand Standards Approval Board, as the bill currently provides. Although the board will be required to be statutorily independent, having the Minister appoint all of its members, including the chairperson, could be seen to be giving rise to cronyism and to the perception of undue ministerial influence through ministerial appointments over the decisions and recommendations of the board. So perhaps some consideration should be given to having the sectors that contribute to the standards appointing at least some of the membership of the board directly, rather than having all of the appointments being made by the Minister. That is an issue that I hope the select committee will address. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000225\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EThe Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment reported back largely positive feedback from stakeholders in the development of the policy upon which the bill is based. The select committee process will provide a further opportunity for stakeholders and for the wider public to have input into a piece of legislation that is necessary but that could be seen to be quite complex. The Green Party is supporting this bill being referred to the select committee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022 data-id=\u0022776f6c908d5b49ceab206f2d00728ba1\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000226\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022776f6c908d5b49ceab206f2d00728ba1\u0022\u003EFLETCHER TABUTEAU (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E I commend the member Melissa Lee\u2014although she is not here\u2014for her appointment as the Commerce Committee chair. She was part of training us as new MPs over the 2-week programme, and I say to her, may her professionalism reign.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224b575405c00e4cdb8cc728eeec13d015\u0022\u003ESimon O\u2019Connor\u003C/span\u003E: In martial arts, or\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000228\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022093c40d89bd24e97ad39b499dcd67a03\u0022\u003EFLETCHER TABUTEAU\u003C/span\u003E: Yes. This bill arises from a review that was undertaken by the former Ministry of Economic Development in May 2007. It is important to note that the findings suggested that the infrastructure relating to standards and accreditation was actually basically sound, and, specifically, that a discussion document also released by the Ministry of Economic Development had no actual submissions regarding the governance arrangements of these Crown entities. This bill sets out to ensure that the New Zealand standards and conformance system is viable and functioning well. It has been noted that in order to do this, the Standards Act 1988 and the Testing Laboratory Registration Act 1972 will both be repealed. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000229\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EJust because I question the timing of this bill does not mean that New Zealand First is against what it sets out to achieve. New Zealand First, in fact, stands in support of this bill because we are a party that always supports New Zealand consumers and ensures they are well looked after. Beyond this, the stated intent of the bill is to ensure that the New Zealand standards being developed align with priorities such as innovation and trade facilitation to develop a more productive economy. As stated last week in speaking to the Accounting Infrastructure Reform Bill, New Zealand First will always support legislation that seeks to improve the frameworks within which New Zealand business operates. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000230\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003ETo frame New Zealand First\u2019s stance on this bill, we need to ask the following questions: will it meet the needs of business and\u2014importantly\u2014consumers moving into the foreseeable future; and will our regulators be able to work effectively and efficiently within the frameworks being provided for here? I quote: \u201CThe purpose of this Act is to\u2014(a) make provision for standards and conformity assessment systems in New Zealand that\u2014(i) are consistent with international practice; and (ii) facilitate trade; and (iii) protect the health, safety, and well-being of the public:\u201D. There are questions to be asked with regard to all parts of this purpose statement. Does consistency compromise safety to New Zealand consumers if the current international standard is less than what we would ourselves accept? Access to consumer goods from around the world exposes New Zealand consumers to a plethora of experiences and useful and, admittedly, sometimes completely redundant gadgets, but, related to the first part, trade is good so long as our New Zealand standards are maintained. Both of these questions I have asked always come back to the safety of the New Zealand public. New Zealand First believes that this should always be our first concern. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000231\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EThe bill sets out to establish the independent New Zealand Standards Approval Board. Alongside this there will be an official position created\u2014namely, the NZ Standards Executive. This person will be responsible for the oversight of New Zealand\u2019s standards and will be employed directly by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000232\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EI earlier asked the question of whether this bill supports our local businesses. My interpretation at this stage would suggest that the intent is there. It is fair to say that internationally aligned standards will facilitate trade. Those same standards will allow for innovative businesses to understand what is required of them before they even begin their development and what is required with regard to standards across a large international cohort of trade partners. Understanding these requirements and what the international competition is able to take advantage of in their own home countries will allow New Zealand innovators and entrepreneurs to take advantage of our own competitive advantages available at home. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000233\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003ETo continue, it is noted that this bill will ensure that we are able to maintain confidence and credibility in the standards development and approval process and in the process of accreditation. This credibility is so very important for New Zealand businesses looking to export their goods. New Zealand First would like to see a high level of assurance that the standards and conformance system is responsive to demands from industry and, of course, our consumers. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000234\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EAlthough I commend the bill, its stated intent to operate on a financially sustainable footing, and its being undertaken in a cost-effective manner, we must be wary again of so-called cost savings compromising the delivery of what is clearly an essential service. I make reference to our border security as an example of so-called cost savings, where an entire industry in several regions across our country lost billions of dollars. I also use a more recent example of the so-called cost savings in the tertiary sector, which are now leading to the dismissal of staff and the shutting down of core departments within large institutions. Cost savings are now compromising the delivery of what I would deem to be core services. It is on record that this bill and the standards committee in particular will have oversight of $20 billion worth of goods. This is an essential service and must be adequately funded. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000235\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EWith regard to the function of the board, I commend the intent to clarify the role of the board. Governance and operational issues can blur the lines of what exactly the role of the board members is. It is of some concern that the board is embedded within the ministry, and also that the board would be appointed by the Minister. I understand that the preliminary feedback from industry players suggests that this model is not ideal. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000236\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EAs with many international issues, New Zealand business seems to bear the burden of harsher requirements. We need to be confident that, as stated, import businesses can be more assured that the products they are importing are much more likely to be up to standard. If we can be assured that international standards do conform to and match our own high levels, then this kind of regulation, implemented fairly around the world, does work both ways. That is to the advantage of New Zealand businesses. When we can assume that other countries and manufacturers are working to the same standards as we are, then we can be sure that the playing field is an even one. I appreciate that we cannot legislate for other countries, but our committee can be advised to keep this kind of standard in mind in its considerations. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000237\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EConversely, in order to support our export market, international markets should feel comfortable with New Zealand\u2019s standards. Currently, our standards are well regarded internationally, and these cannot be compromised. I acknowledge the level of complexity that many markets and industries involve. They involve incredibly rapidly developing technologies, and so a smaller committee for standards should be more responsive in an evermore rapidly changing world. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000238\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EThere are many questions around the margin, questions about the detail. As stated, New Zealand First supports this bill. However, given some preliminary conversations with industry that spoke against some of the detail provided, it is essential that the public of New Zealand be given their chance to speak to this bill. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022 data-id=\u00221b8c8200fda2452da219c1bbf0a5b907\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000239\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221b8c8200fda2452da219c1bbf0a5b907\u0022\u003EKANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to the first reading of the Standards and Accreditation Bill. As consumers, we have minimum expectations of a product or a service. These expectations are what we have come to know as standards. Standards ensure that consumers can buy a product or service with confidence, and businesses can market and sell their products and services with confidence, knowing that these products meet the customers\u2019 expectations as well as health and safety requirements. The Standards and Accreditation Bill follows a comprehensive review to ensure that our standards system is independent and sustainable. With these words, I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a94870a7-abc4-4c1b-bd1e-8a27b98a2a4c\u0022 data-id=\u0022cbfe8c091682483a8ae8867ee96b88f6\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000240\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a94870a7-abc4-4c1b-bd1e-8a27b98a2a4c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022cbfe8c091682483a8ae8867ee96b88f6\u0022\u003EMOJO MATHERS (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to speak in support of the Standards and Accreditation Bill. As my colleague James Shaw has indicated, we will support this bill\u2019s referral to a select committee. As our spokesperson for consumer affairs, I am very aware that this bill has the potential to impact on all areas of New Zealand society. It may have a dry name, but it is absolutely critical law. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000241\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a94870a7-abc4-4c1b-bd1e-8a27b98a2a4c\u0022\u003EAt the moment we have over 3,000 New Zealand standards, and we are looking at over 50,000 more from overseas. These standards play a critical role because they are clear and confident. They set health and safety standards, they ensure that products are reliable and that they are safe to use, they can minimise risk in a disaster, and so on. It is incredibly important that we can have faith in the regulatory body that oversees the setting and implementation of these standards because we rely on these standards to keep us safe as consumers. They set the standards for playgrounds, for electrical equipment, for banking\u2014for all areas of our lives. To do that, we need to have trust that the relevant expertise has been drawn upon in the setting of the standards and that the people involved have high standards of integrity and are trusted by all of society. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000242\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a94870a7-abc4-4c1b-bd1e-8a27b98a2a4c\u0022\u003EIt is also incredibly important that the ability to set and maintain the standards is flexible enough to take into account modern innovation and that it updates to reflect the changing needs of different consumers. One area in particular that I have been involved in around standards, of course, has been standard 4121 in the building industry, which sets the standards around accessibility. That standard has stagnated and has not been updated to reflect the changes in wheelchair sizes, scooters, and so on, and also modern innovation. So people have been very, very frustrated with the slow pace to update that standard, and I am sure that, as with the other standards, people have been really frustrated that the necessary updating of the standard has not appeared in a timely fashion. We hope that the restructure will allow for a more rapid response to changing consumer needs. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000243\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a94870a7-abc4-4c1b-bd1e-8a27b98a2a4c\u0022\u003EIt is also incredibly important that we hear from the people who are involved with the setting and maintenance of these standards, including people like health and safety representatives, councils, the regulatory body, and consumers themselves, as well as people from the industry, as to how they perceive the current system is working and how this bill will make things better for them. It is an incredibly important bill, and it is incredibly important that we get this restructuring right. So we support the bill\u2019s referral to a select committee, but we will be listening very carefully to the feedback from submitters. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u0022ba3b21e7132641c58f452b00ad1d8fa6\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000244\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ba3b21e7132641c58f452b00ad1d8fa6\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS (Labour\u2014Rimutaka):\u003C/span\u003E I am happy to take a fairly brief call on this standards legislation. I want to say that the Labour Party will be supporting the bill\u2019s referral to the select committee, and we look forward to the debate. We do have some further things that we will be looking for clarification on at such time as we get to have those hearings. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000245\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EThe Standards and Accreditation Bill is long overdue. I think there are many elements of it that the New Zealand public should be very supportive of. I think that when we talk about standards, though, we should be clear what we are talking about. Standards impact on every part of our day-to-day lives, whether they are building standards, the standards for appliances we purchase, or standards related to workplaces. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000246\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EOne of the reasons that standards are important from an employee perspective is that there is a significant health and safety factor. One of things that the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions has quite rightly raised with regard to this review is its desire to see union and worker representation in the development process for standards. I actually think this is very, very important. If you look at health and safety in the workplace, for example, take an industry that I have become familiar with in the last few months\u2014the forestry sector. I think we do need to have workers much more involved in the development of standards within the forestry sector because we need to get that wider buy-in to what has been going on there. If we are going to address health and safety in the forestry sector, then it will need to involve all the players in the forestry sector. I think that is a good example of why making sure that the standards that get set have good buy-in and are well supported. So that is the first point I would like to make. I am going to be looking, as this bill progresses, to ensure that there is adequate worker representation throughout the process. You will have to forgive me, Mr Deputy Speaker. I have somewhat of a rusty throat today.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000247\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EI do want to also then talk about\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000248\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cd99f4d9d2264b82823011a2a5cf79b3\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: Rusty?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000249\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226f470d8f385c4eb9a8a4c71ac896a30f\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014rusty, very rusty\u2014the importance of the independence from Government. When it comes to setting standards, we know that if this was left up to the current Government, the standards would be moved every day. One of the critical things about standards is that you set standards so that there is a reliable benchmark, so that people know where they stand, and yet we do not seem to have that with the Government. For example, a classic case in point\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000250\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222d158dd66a2c47b1ba58a2b17e808828\u0022\u003ESimon O\u2019Connor\u003C/span\u003E: A national standard.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000251\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229b99de034a8b4c80951ecee7c103321a\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS\u003C/span\u003E: Well, national standards are a great example. National standards would not survive the scrutiny that this bill proposes. National standards are neither national nor standard, so they would fail at the first hurdle. But then John Key\u2019s standards for Ministers would also fail at the first hurdle because they change depending on who the Minister is. For example, we know that there was a certain level of standard for Judith Collins. She seemed to manage to get away with a lot of stuff then suddenly the standards changed and she was out. It was the same with Maurice Williamson\u2014suddenly he was out. We had examples today where John Key fails to meet his own standards, but apparently that is OK because when he did not meet his own standards he was not acting as Prime Minister; he was acting as leader of the National Party, so therefore the standard really depends on which hat he is wearing at the time. I think that having independence from Government when it comes to setting standards is very important, because we know where we stand, so to speak, when standards are set by an independent body. We certainly do not know where we stand when they are set by this current National Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000252\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003ESo we will be looking forward to seeing this bill progress through. There are some very positive aspects to it. When I started at the beginning, I mentioned that this bill was very long overdue. There was, of course, a bill drafted in 2008 by the previous Labour Government. It was all ready to go and that, of course, was stalled by the current National Government for 6 years. It is now finally getting around to progressing this legislation and I think that that will be a welcome thing. There were 6 years of reviews, discussions, submissions, and inaction, overall, but that seems to be the case with this Government. It is quite often very lost in what it is trying to do. It just has another review\u2014another consultation process, another review, and nothing ever gets done. We are pleased to see that this bill is now finally progressing. I think that we will be following the debate very closely. Thank you very much. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022 data-id=\u0022bfe3498627a54a06a069612872dfb06b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000253\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022bfe3498627a54a06a069612872dfb06b\u0022\u003ESIMON O\u2019CONNOR (National\u2014T\u0101maki):\u003C/span\u003E I am pleased to rise to speak briefly to this bill. I need to respond to Chris Hipkins, my colleague across the House. I think the standards of this Government have been incredibly high and have been well recognised\u2014accredited, if you would like\u2014with an almost 50 percent vote to return us here to the House. So you could not get a higher accreditation. I will not, though, make a contrast with the other side. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000254\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003EThis is an important bill. I am very pleased to see that there is a range of support across the House, and I commend it to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022 data-id=\u002224f531a8e6264eee87bb42aed41872c5\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000255\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002224f531a8e6264eee87bb42aed41872c5\u0022\u003EKRIS FAAFOI (Labour\u2014Mana):\u003C/span\u003E I would like to begin by agreeing with the Green Party member Mojo Mathers that although this piece of legislation has a relatively mundane title, it is a very important piece of legislation for the everyday lives of Kiwis. We are talking about standards. A lot of things happen\u2014and we expect them to happen\u2014out there in the community, because there are standards out there. So this is a very important piece of legislation, and we on this side of the House have said that we will be supporting its referral to the Commerce Committee, where I look forward, as a member of that committee, to being able to ask a few questions of the Government and to hearing submissions from the public. I know there were a lot of submissions to the standards and infrastructure review that was run by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment earlier this year, and I will refer to some of those later on in my contribution. As I say, as a member of the august Commerce Committee\u2014and I would like to congratulate Melissa Lee, who made a contribution\u2014we are looking forward to hearing about this piece of legislation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000256\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EAs I mentioned before, in everyday life there are standards everywhere, from members of the public expecting their cellphones to work to their expecting to be on the right frequency to ensure their phone calls come through, through to\u2014as Chris Hipkins mentioned\u2014standards surrounding health and safety. It has already been noted in this debate that a very similar piece of legislation introduced by the previous Labour Government in 2008 unfortunately sat dormant until this piece of legislation was introduced.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000257\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EI think there have been plenty of missed opportunities since then, especially in the area of health and safety. A number of examples have been brought up already. I think the Hon Clayton Cosgrove talked about the health and safety standards surrounding Pike River, one of the worst industrial disasters or tragedies of our lifetime. Also there are issues around the forestry industry, where we have had\u2014and I am looking at our spokesperson on that industry, Chris Hipkins\u2014around 10 deaths in the last year. So there are some serious questions that need to be asked around health and safety and standards, and we have a duty as a Parliament to make sure that we get some of those small, technical things around frequencies right but also some of the really important things around health and safety right as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000258\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EI would like to point out that in the 115 submissions to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment review, there was one significant submission from the Council of Trade Unions. I would like to thank the council for its submission, and to reiterate the point that Chris Hipkins made, which is that although we are going to hear from the likes of industry and experts, we do not want to forget the voice of the workers out there, especially when we have brought up two of those instances of mining disasters and tragedies, and serious, fatal accidents in the forestry industry. It is really important that this Parliament encourage the voice of workers to be heard at the select committee deliberation on this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000259\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EThere are a number of other things that have been mentioned already on this side of the House that concern us, which I think will be raised at the select committee, and those are around the motivation for the changes and why they are happening now. There is a suspicion that this bill is motivated by cost cutting and that the motivation is not necessarily there to make sure that we have a robust standards infrastructure here, because all of a sudden this piece of legislation has arrived on the Table. It could be the fact that the new Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs has taken very little time to take the razor to his department and is looking for cost savings, and we are very concerned about that being the driving motivation behind this legislation. You have only to look at the regulatory impact statement from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to understand that there could be significant cost savings if the Government\u2019s intention to change the way that the standards come about is seen through. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000260\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EThere were three options before Cabinet. The first was to keep the status quo. The second option in the regulatory impact statement was to have the standards development function that we are looking at in this bill undertaken by International Accreditation New Zealand. The third option was that the function of standards development be undertaken by the statutory officer located in the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and that is the preferred option that is within this legislation. On page 10 of the regulatory impact statement there is quite a helpful table that shows significant cost savings by moving, as the Government intends, towards having this standards function within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. That is somewhere along the lines, I believe, of nearly $2.5 million or $3 million, which might not sound a lot in the bigger scheme of things, but when you think that this Government may have a bit of an agenda to try to cut costs, this is one way that it is looking at doing that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000261\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EWe do not oppose efficiency if it is effective, but if this is a case of efficiency and cost cutting being done for the sake of cost cutting, then we do have some reservations as to why the Government may have structured this particular piece of legislation in the way it has. So I think that will certainly be one of the questions asked in the Commerce Committee\u2014as to what is the driver of this piece of legislation. Is it the fact that we want to strengthen our standards bodies, or is it the fact that we want to take a bit of a razor to this department and restructure it to make some significant cost savings? I guess we will also get the chance to ask the Minister in the chair this question when we get to the Committee stage here in the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000262\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EAs I said at the beginning, this does sound, by title, a mundane piece of legislation, but there are a number of areas in everyday life where standards are important. As the broadcasting spokesperson, one of those areas is something simple like TV volume. You would be surprised at the number of people, usually elderly people, who come to me as the broadcasting spokesperson to ask me why there is not a standard for TV volume, especially for advertising. They may choose to use their own power when they are watching Parliament TV to push the mute button\u2014and that is their right\u2014but they certainly have come to me to ask why there is not a standard TV volume for advertising. There is always one particular company they are upset with, and that is Harvey Norman. When they watch an episode of, perhaps, Coronation Street on Television One, a staple show for many elderly people\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000263\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c77806bf56fa4d2799208bfa2bf711db\u0022\u003EHon Members\u003C/span\u003E: Oh!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000264\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223e6f741287624aaf8d200c5f1b247d60\u0022\u003EKRIS FAAFOI\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014oh, OK! I take that back; I realise it has a broad audience\u2014all of a sudden a Harvey Norman ad will come on, booming out of their televisions, and this obviously upsets the young and old. These are the kinds of standards that we are talking about here, which have a huge impact on us in our everyday lives. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000265\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EI do not think we should just pooh-pooh this piece of legislation because it has a mundane title\u2014the Standards and Accreditation Bill. This piece of legislation is important. We will refer it to the select committee, but not without reservations. I do want to reiterate that we are very concerned about the Government\u2019s motivation around the cutting of costs and the placement of this new position within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. It has already been noted in an earlier contribution by Clare Curran that it is very interesting that the regulatory impact statement was done by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment when this new position is going to be located within the ministry. You would think that because there would be a perceived\u2014and actually, a real\u2014conflict of interest there, maybe the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment could have removed itself from the process, and there should have been an independent regulatory impact statement done on this piece of legislation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000266\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EIn regard to our support, we will give the bill support to a select committee. We do have some reservations about the structure within the bill. Because it has probably come about from a piece of legislation that was introduced by the last Labour Government, we will, at this stage, support it, but we will be asking serious questions during the select committee deliberation. Thank you very much.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022 data-id=\u00222127f7a3d23044beba7a639113dfc999\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000267\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222127f7a3d23044beba7a639113dfc999\u0022\u003EJOANNE HAYES (National):\u003C/span\u003E Kia ora, Mr Assistant Speaker. I stand for a very short call on this bill. I want to support this bill. This is a great achievement for our new Minister Paul Goldsmith. I have no doubt that it will be one of many bills that will come through this House. So, without any further ado, I support this bill. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000268\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EBill read a first time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000269\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EBill referred to the Commerce Committee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022 data-id=\u0022f02d22736ca7456bad3f1e317fd1fb82\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000270\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f02d22736ca7456bad3f1e317fd1fb82\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH (Minister for the Environment)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs: I move, That the Standards and Accreditation Bill be reported back to the House by 31 March 2015.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000271\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003EMotion agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000272\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022d3fe6f1fc2b1435a82f78be71fa68679\u0022\u003EOrganised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000273\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00221e86b5214d6b445c8c134f61f38f4f43\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022 data-id=\u0022405098695c754933bff560e939495f56\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000274\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022405098695c754933bff560e939495f56\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS (Minister of Justice):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill be now read a first time. I nominate the Law and Order Committee to consider this bill. Organised crime is a global problem. It undermines public safety, economic development, good governance, and national security. Unfortunately, New Zealand is not immune to the threat posed by both international and domestic criminal networks, which operate on many fronts\u2014for example, criminals use money-laundering to disguise their illegal activities and to profit from crime. Money-laundering involves transforming money from illegal activity, often referred to as \u201Cdirty money\u201D, into funds that appear to come from a legitimate source. Other organised criminal activities include identity theft, people-trafficking, and a range of acts that fall under the umbrella of bribery and corruption. This bill tackles all of these. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000275\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EIf we are to combat a global problem, we need a global solution, and New Zealand is committed to playing its part. This bill benefits New Zealand in three main ways: it improves our ability to combat crime domestically, it improves our ability to coordinate with other countries to combat crime internationally, and it improves our international reputation by ensuring compliance with international obligations. This bill gives law enforcement agencies greater powers to deal with organised crime and corruption and to cooperate with our international counterparts in the fight against transnational crime. It also enhances New Zealand\u2019s compliance with a number of international agreements and allows for the ratification of others. This will help maintain and enhance New Zealand\u2019s reputation as a trustworthy trading partner with a strong, reliable financial sector. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EThis bill demonstrates the Government\u2019s ongoing commitment to tackling organised crime and corrupt practices in a number of ways. The 2011 all-of-Government response, Strengthening New Zealand\u2019s resistance to organised crime, outlined a number of initiatives and new laws that this Government had introduced to target and disrupt organised crime. However, we recognised that we could not afford to rest on our laurels. The report also indicated areas where we could further enhance how we are tackling organised crime, and this bill addresses many of those areas that require legislation. It also responds to calls for reform to New Zealand law made by intergovernmental bodies that we play an important role in, such as the Financial Action Task Force and the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions, and it enables ratification of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000277\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EI will now briefly outline some of the key reforms in the bill, which is an omnibus bill amending 12 Acts. The bill amends the money-laundering offences under the Crimes Act and the Misuse of Drugs Act. The changes address practical law enforcement difficulties and corrects deficiencies in our laws required by international agreements. One of the changes clarifies that the intent to conceal is not necessary in order to prove a money-laundering offence. This requirement was never specified in the legislation, but over the years New Zealand courts have read it into the law. The bill also removes the requirement that laundered proceeds stem from an offence carrying at least 5 years\u2019 imprisonment. This will address a practical enforcement difficulty for police in establishing the specific criminal act from which the laundered proceeds are derived. These two changes will ensure that criminals can be more readily prosecuted for money-laundering and will help deter those who exploit the current limitations. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000278\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EIn addition, the bill amends the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act to improve our ability to detect and investigate money-laundering. Reporting requirements are introduced for two high-risk classes of transactions. Financial institutions will need to report to police all international wire transactions of over $1,000 and physical cash transactions of $10,000 or more. We know that criminals use such transactions to launder money. Better reporting will enhance the effectiveness of our efforts to detect money-laundering. Banks already collect identity information from their customers, so they should not notice any difference from these changes. The amendments I have just outlined align New Zealand law with the laws of other countries and with best-practice recommendations from the Financial Action Task Force. This task force is the intergovernmental body that guides international efforts to combat money-laundering. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000279\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EThe bill also adds new identity offences to the Crimes Act and the Customs and Excise Act. A range of offences currently cover situations where criminals use false identity documents to commit dishonest or deceptive acts. However, currently there are no specific offences that prohibit criminals from selling or distributing unlawfully obtained identification information, nor is there any offence of making or possessing goods intended to facilitate identity crimes, such as credit card skimming devices. This bill closes those gaps in the criminal law. It also adds these goods to the list of prohibited items under the Customs and Excise Act. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EOther important amendments in the bill expressly provide police with the power to share appropriate personal information, including fingerprint information, with international counterparts. These provisions will enable the implementation of the agreement with the United States on preventing and combating crime. These amendments are subject to strict restrictions and a Cabinet directive for police to consult with the Privacy Commissioner.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000281\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EIt is also worth noting that this bill includes several safeguards to protect the privacy of New Zealanders. The main safeguard is that the personal information may be disclosed by New Zealand Police only when two conditions are met. The first is where the information is being disclosed to a corresponding overseas agency that performs one of the functions that the New Zealand Police performs, and the second is that the disclosure is reasonably necessary to enable the corresponding overseas agency to perform that function. It is only after these two requirements are met and subject to any other enactment that the information can be disclosed in one of four circumstances. In the event that these conditions are breached, individuals may, of course, complain to the Privacy Commissioner. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000282\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EThe Office of the Privacy Commissioner was consulted on the proposals of this bill, and will be closely involved in its implementation, including keeping a watching brief to ensure the statutory criteria for information sharing are being adhered to. These safeguards are important in balancing the privacy of New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000283\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EIn addition, the bill makes amendments to the Criminal Investigations (Bodily Samples) Act and the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act to allow DNA data bank information to be provided to assist criminal investigations and prosecutions overseas. The Attorney-General\u2019s approval will be required on a case by case basis before any DNA information can be provided. Both sets of amendments will enhance international law enforcement cooperation and capability. The sharing of information with our counterparts is critical if we are to combat a global problem. However, concerns around open data-sharing are also important. Although the bill outlines key restrictions around what information can be shared and with which overseas agencies, I am certainly keen to hear from the select committee in this regard. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000284\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EA range of other amendments fall under the bribery and corruption umbrella. This Government remains committed to ratifying the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. New Zealand has already implemented several of the convention\u2019s obligations by enacting the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act and the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act. Further amendments are required to the Crimes Act, the Secret Commissions Act, and the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act to bring New Zealand into full compliance with the convention. All those necessary changes are included in this bill. Other amendments in the bill will enhance compliance with the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions. Collectively, these bribery and corruption amendments will ensure that New Zealand has a robust legislative framework that complies with international best practice in deterring and holding offenders to account. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000285\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ELet me conclude by briefly mentioning two other sets of reforms in the bill. The bill amends the Crimes Act offence of people-trafficking. It extends the offence so that it applies to people-trafficking within New Zealand, not just when the victims are moved in or out of this country. It also introduces an exploitative purpose\u2014for example, prostitution or slavery\u2014for trafficking of persons. Again, the amendments bring the legislation into line with international best practice in fighting this very serious offence. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000286\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EFinally, I will address amendments to the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act. The changes will extend the time frames for foreign restraining orders and will allow those orders to be registered without notice. The proposed amendments will ensure that criminals cannot conceal or dispose of assets before the relevant court proceedings conclude.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000287\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EThe wide range of amendments in the bill will ensure that New Zealand has a robust, fit for purpose legislative framework to combat organised crime, bribery, and corruption. The bill will further enhance this country\u2019s compliance with international instruments, and our ability to implement or ratify others, including, as I have said, the Agreement on Enhancing Cooperation in Preventing and Combating Crime, which was signed with the US, and the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. This will ensure that New Zealand maintains and improves its already high reputation as a trustworthy trading partner with a robust financial sector. The bill signals this Government\u2019s commitment to combat organised crime and corruption everywhere and on every level. I commend it to the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022 data-id=\u002224f90029d7f147b48c2ea3711640eba9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000288\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002224f90029d7f147b48c2ea3711640eba9\u0022\u003EHon ANNETTE KING (Acting Deputy Leader\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E Labour will support the Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill. It is good to see the bill has finally made its way to a first reading. We will support this bill. It is an omnibus bill that will enact 12 different Acts and it will strengthen the law to combat organised crime and corruption. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000289\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EThe bill, as you heard from the Minister of Justice, will allow New Zealand to ratify the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, it will allow the implementation of the Agreement on Enhancing Cooperation in Preventing and Combatting Crime, which was signed between the Governments of the United States and New Zealand, and it will also improve New Zealand\u2019s compliance with a number of other international conventions: the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions, the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime, and the United Nations anti-trafficking protocol. These are all important amendments. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000290\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EThis bill was first looked at by the Government in 2011. In 2011 the Government agreed to an all-of-Government response to organised crime. It has taken some time for it to get to Parliament for its first reading\u2014in fact, the then Minister of Justice, Judith Collins, promised that the bill would be introduced in 2013. That did not happen. But it has been longer in its gestation than that. In fact, way back in July 2008 the previous Labour Government announced the Organised and Financial Crime Agency of New Zealand\u2014which, as people will know, is a discrete agency hosted within the New Zealand Police\u2014which was to take a whole-of-Government approach. That work started right back in 2008. I suppose you could say that it has taken almost 6 years for the Government to move on some very serious issues. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000291\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EIt is well acknowledged\u2014and I agree with the Minister\u2014that New Zealand has a strong legislative framework to obstruct organised crime. We do have robust domestic laws and law enforcement and we have strong partnerships internationally. But, as the Minister also said, that does not mean that we are not perceived as an easy target. I want to mention a little later on a growing area of concern, and that is domestic human-trafficking. So we are a target, and we should not think that because we are at the bottom of the world and nobody really knows about us, we would not be an easy target for organised crime networks. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000292\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EWe do have a strong and very proud tradition of being an honest nation. We take a strong stance against organised crime. We are consistently ranked amongst the least corrupt countries in the world. Of course, every year we look forward to Transparency International bringing out its report. For those who are not aware of what Transparency International is, it is a global civil society organisation. It is there to lead the fight against corruption. We eagerly look forward to its annual report ranking countries and territories based on how corrupt their public sectors are perceived to be. It does this on a scale of zero to 100, with zero meaning a country is highly corrupt and 100 meaning it is perceived to be very clean. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003ENew Zealand has consistently been in the top two countries, with scores in the 90s. That tradition, I believe, comes from our being the first country in the world to have legislation promoting human rights. It is also down to legislation such as our Public Service Act 1912 and our Official Information Act of 1982. In Transparency International\u2019s latest report, New Zealand came first equal with Denmark for being the least corrupt country in the world. Australia came 9th, the United Kingdom came 14th, the United States came 19th, South Africa came 72nd, China came 80th, India came 94th, and, at the very bottom, Somalia came 175th. So we are very proud that we have maintained our position in Transparency International\u2019s rankings over many, many years, and we are determined we will keep that status. It is good for this country and good for the Public Service of New Zealand to know that we are seen to be the least corrupt in the world. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000294\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EWe also have a branch of Transparency International here, Transparency International New Zealand. It is our representative in Transparency International. In 2013 it released a report called the Integrity Plus 2013 New Zealand National Integrity System Assessment. In December 2013, when it was released, it was called a landmark report, and it revealed that \u201Cserious and urgent action is needed to protect and extend integrity in New Zealand.\u201D It also said: \u201CRecent incidents and investigations of corruption, and increasing public concern, provide a compelling case for a more pro-active approach to these issues.\u201D We have our own branch here in New Zealand of an international organisation saying there is a compelling case, so we cannot rest on our laurels and our reputation going back many years. There is a case to have a more proactive approach on these issues. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000295\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EIt is almost a year since that report, and finally we are getting a first reading of this bill. I think it is time because there have been more incidents\u2014one that I will talk about later\u2014that mean we need to be more proactive.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000296\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EI want to mention just some of the things that make us very transparent and open and support our good reputation. These include the Official Information Act and the ability to tell the public of New Zealand what is happening in terms of our Public Service\u2014to release information provided by our Public Service to a Government. But we have seen a decline in that Act being used in the most appropriate way. I believe that these issues are important to us as a country and as a Parliament. We cannot allow any Government\u2014I do not care what colour it comes from\u2014to use delays, obstructions, and tactics to stop official information being released.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000297\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EIt was very concerning when the leader of the Government in New Zealand, the Prime Minister, said only a couple of weeks ago that the Government often uses the delay in releasing information for political purposes. It is unheard of for that to be said by a leader of the Government of New Zealand\u2014the use of delaying tactics for political purposes in terms of the Official Information Act. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000298\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EThere are a number of issues I want to raise, but one of them in particular has to be around the disclosures that have come out of Dirty Politics. I think we, as a Parliament, need to take them very seriously, because although\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000299\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022862aedbc0de34ca9949c3abe6c652585\u0022\u003EHon Dr Nick Smith\u003C/span\u003E: What about Nicky Hager?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000300\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002258ec725d602943eda54df77be33c7f88\u0022\u003EHon ANNETTE KING\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014it may not be of interest to the National Party\u2014and we immediately hear from Nick Smith that he does not want to hear this\u2014we are watched internationally. We are watched internationally as to how well we work. And when we have people working in Government departments and Ministers\u2019 offices providing information that undermines professionals, academics, and leaders in New Zealand, then we need to be very worried about what the public and the international community says about that. I am disgusted that there has been denigration of people who are health professionals working in our public health sector, who are being worked against by officials working in Ministers\u2019 offices. That will be known internationally, that will be seen internationally, and the question will be asked: \u201CJust how clean is the New Zealand Public Service\u2014those who work in the highest offices of this Parliament, in Ministers\u2019 offices?\u201D. We need to be very vigilant when it comes to matters that go to the heart of our openness and transparency.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000301\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EIn conclusion, I want to mention the amendments in respect of the trafficking of domestic persons in New Zealand. I am pleased to see this, because we had had no experience of human trafficking. But you need to know that only a few weeks ago we had the first prosecution of human trafficking in New Zealand. If we think we can avoid these sorts of issues, then we are very much mistaken. We are part of the global community and we need to strengthen these laws to ensure that we have the best in place.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022 data-id=\u0022438dea03ebe94a0bb744acfe2441c45b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000302\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022438dea03ebe94a0bb744acfe2441c45b\u0022\u003EMIKE SABIN (National\u2014Northland):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker Mallard, and I will take this as my first opportunity to officially acknowledge your promotion to the position of Assistant Speaker. I hope that goes very well for you. The Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill is an omnibus bill that seeks to amend 12 Acts. I will pick up on the points that the Hon Annette King has just made about the fact that New Zealand is not immune to some of the most abhorrent organised crimes that we see going on around the world. As the member has rightly pointed out, people-trafficking is one of them. Globally organised crime obviously knows no boundaries. As the world moves forward and we become technologically advanced, so too do criminal activities, organised crime, and corruption. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000303\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003EThis bill really is an important part of New Zealand\u2019s obligations to meet international and United Nations conventions in terms of strengthening our ability as a nation to ensure that organised crime\u2014organised criminal entities, corruption, money-laundering, people-trafficking, and so forth\u2014can be fought on the many levels that it needs to be. More and more often, New Zealand is being called upon to cooperate and participate in international inquiries and investigations. One of the opportunities that globally organised criminal entities look for in terms of their enterprises is the gap between different jurisdictions. They exploit those gaps. They exploit the fact that some countries do not talk or share information well with one another, and where those gaps exist is where there are opportunities. Clearly, this is something that this bill, and the international conventions that the bill seeks to address, will go to the heart of. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000304\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003EOrganised crime and corruption is increasingly more sophisticated, and it is fair to say, I think, that New Zealand enjoys a reputation for being\u2014as Annette King pointed out\u2014one of the least corrupt countries in the world, but that is not going to stop people trying. Certainly, we have seen that with drug trafficking, where over the course of the last 10 or 15 years New Zealand has become an end-user destination. It has become quite a significant part of drug trafficking in, say, methamphetamine. There are methamphetamine transactions on a large scale\u2014in multiple millions and billions of dollars, in fact\u2014and we also see a lot of money-laundering and so forth going on underneath that. These criminal entities and networks are able to overlap and work with one another in a very, very sophisticated way. That is something that I think New Zealand enforcement agencies have to work very, very hard to combat, and it is very hard to do that without the appropriate legislative framework. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000305\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003EI will just run over a couple of the key points in the time that I have left. A couple of the key measures in this bill include requiring banks to report all international wire transactions over $1,000 and all physical cash transactions of $10,000 or more to the financial intelligence unit within the police. There is the redrafting of the money-laundering offence to specify that the intent to conceal is not required. The bill is introducing new offences to address identity crime including the selling or passing-on of unlawfully obtained identity information, something that is certainly increasingly more sophisticated and in common use. There is the amending of people-trafficking offences so that they apply to such activity in New Zealand, not just to when victims are moved in or out of this country. It is amending the Policing Act 2008 to expressly provide police with the power to share information with their international counterparts. As I mentioned, this is one of the areas that these more sophisticated organised criminal entities absolutely exploit\u2014the gaps that exist between jurisdictions, their inability to share information or the lack of the capability to do so, and, certainly, the lack of a sound legal nexus between jurisdictions. There is the revising of the foreign bribery offence, including clarifying the circumstances in which a corporation is liable for foreign bribery, and the increasing of penalties for bribery and corruption in the private sector to bring them into line with public sector bribery offences. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000306\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003EThat runs over just a couple of the key points. It is an important piece of legislation, I think. It is a big chunk of work that amends 12 Acts, as I said. I look forward to hearing submissions as this process proceeds. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u0022cd6ab0b4fe2944b29bcd148683c36307\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000307\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022cd6ab0b4fe2944b29bcd148683c36307\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS (Labour\u2014Rimutaka):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to speak in support of the first reading of the Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill. Labour will support this bill going through to the select committee and is looking forward to the ongoing debate around these matters. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000308\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003ENew Zealanders should rightly be proud of the fact that we regularly rank very, very well in international studies and surveys when it comes to transparency, lack of corruption, and so forth, but there is no room for complacency, as those who have spoken before me have already mentioned. We are consistently among the least corrupt countries in the world. However, there are certain warning signs to suggest that we should take this matter very seriously\u2014for example, we are seeing a lessening of transparency from this Government. My colleague Annette King mentioned in her speech before the open admission by the Prime Minister that the current Government does not take the Official Information Act seriously\u2014that it will wilfully break the law when it comes to the Official Information Act. That Act is one of the most important instruments we have in our constitutional arrangements to ensure transparency and, basically, a governing process that is free from corruption. This Government willingly breaks that law, and the Prime Minister himself has admitted it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000309\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EWe have the Official Information Act because of the old adage that sunlight is the best disinfectant. When all of the workings of Government are public, then people will be forced to act in a way that is honest, that is open, and that is decent. That is a very good thing. It is not a good thing when the Government does not lead by example and when it willingly flouts the law in the way that it has been doing with the Official Information Act. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000310\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EI went and looked, in preparation for this debate, at the Oxford Dictionary\u2019s definition of the word \u201Ccorruption\u201D. It is defined as \u201Cdishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically involving bribery\u201D\u2014dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power. There are many, many examples where some of the behaviour that we have been seeing is, if not fraudulent, certainly dishonest. Take, for example, the conduct of the Minister who introduced this legislation to the House, the Hon\u2014oh, no, she is not honourable any more. Judith Collins introduced this legislation to Parliament. The irony of that is that Judith Collins introduced this legislation around the time that she took a trip to China to talk about reducing corruption, and yet she was surreptitiously visiting Oravida to promote her husband\u2019s business interests. Of course, we know that Oravida then gave money to the National Party. I know that people at home will be able to draw their own conclusions about whether or not any of that kind of conduct might fit within the definition that I just mentioned from the Oxford Dictionary. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000311\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EWe know that there has been a corruption of the political process in New Zealand because it has been spelt out in great detail in the Dirty Politics book. It is simply a disgrace. For example, the cadre of people\u2014and that is the only way you could describe them\u2014with links to the National Party have been engaged in what can only be described as destructive and offensive behaviour that most New Zealanders, including New Zealanders who support the National Party and possibly even those who are members of the National Party, would find simply disgraceful, and yet that is all spelt out here. That is exactly what has been going on within John Key\u2019s National Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000312\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EThese are the same people who referred to the Christchurch earthquake victims as scum. They referred to the victims of the Pike River mining disaster as feral. These are the people whom John Key and his Government Ministers personally like to associate themselves with, and I think those members should hang their heads in shame about that. They have targeted public figures, non-governmental organisations, political opponents, and anybody who gets in their way. They have been targeting them, denigrating them, smearing their private lives, and trying to dissuade them from speaking out publicly. Those are not the actions of a Government that is committed to openness, transparency, and fighting corruption. Those are not the actions that New Zealanders should be expecting from their current Government. It has been revealed that not only have the Prime Minister\u2019s staff been involved directly in supporting that kind of behaviour but, in fact, Ministers themselves have been involved directly in supporting those kinds of activities. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000313\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EIt should be very concerning to all New Zealanders, when we are debating measures to fight corruption, that those kinds of smear campaigns were used to undermine regulators like the Serious Fraud Office and the Financial Markets Authority. If we are really serious about being an open, transparent country that is free from corruption, the Serious Fraud Office and the Financial Markets Authority should be able to go about their business without having the Government or its surrogates smearing the activities of those who are doing their jobs, and yet we have seen spelt out in black and white clear examples of where that has happened. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000314\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EUltimately, it cost Judith Collins her ministerial position, and that is right and proper. But have we ever seen any concrete action from the Prime Minister to put an end to the activities that underpinned her resignation? No, we have not. Let us be clear what this was. This was the Minister of Justice being involved in a smear campaign against senior officials in the Serious Fraud Office. That is simply\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000315\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220f767162341d40d7a644d67c36663624\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I would just like to ask the member to come back to the bill and to warn him about going too far into the facts of something that is currently being investigated by the police. I think the member could narrow himself back.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000316\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a17e67c673c84abd93c6a7f4f6dd2b4d\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS\u003C/span\u003E: I am happy to do that. To return to the bill, I want to turn to Transparency International\u2019s definitions and descriptions of what corruption involves. This is from Transparency International: \u201CCorruption generally comprises illegal activities, which are deliberately hidden and only come to light through scandals, investigations or prosecutions.\u201D One of the reasons that scandals arise in New Zealand and investigations and prosecutions can take place is that we have a very open system of Government now. We have an Official Information Act that allows New Zealanders to get access to information. Many of the scandals that have been unearthed have used those mechanisms of Government like the Official Information Act to unearth the very behaviour that this bill seeks not just to limit but basically to stop from happening. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000317\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003ETherefore, it is incumbent upon the Government of the day to lead by example when it comes to making sure that there is transparency around its activities. Yes, some scandals are bigger than others, but scandals will typically be unearthed only when somebody either seeks out the information\u2014digs for the information and puts all of the pieces of the puzzle together\u2014or blows the whistle. They are not going to be doing that if their access to information is shut down because people willingly do not follow the law when it comes to things like the Official Information Act, or if the people whose job it is to enforce those laws and regulations are smeared or actively undermined, whether it be from within or from without the Government. So it is very important that we continue to be vigilant when it comes to those things. I think we have seen some very clear examples just recently of where the current Government has not lived up to the type of behaviour that New Zealanders should, rightly, be able to expect from their Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000318\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EI want to say that the Labour Party will be supporting this bill going through to the select committee. It is going to be an interesting debate, and I think that we will be getting into this in much greater detail as it progresses. We should feel fortunate in New Zealand that we are a country that is relatively free from corruption and that we regularly rate very highly in the international surveys and studies that are done. That is something to be proud of, but it is not something to be complacent about. New Zealand should continue to rank highly in those surveys. We will do that only if we continue to maintain our vigilance. That is one of the many reasons that the Labour Party will be supporting this bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022 data-id=\u00220826ec9c95ae4acbb94145deda7f1abf\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000319\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220826ec9c95ae4acbb94145deda7f1abf\u0022\u003EKANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you for the opportunity to speak during the first reading of the Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill. This legislation will further strengthen our reputation as one of the least corrupt countries in the world. Our law enforcement institutions are dealing with regular requests from counterparts across the globe to provide or contribute to information. We have come to learn that the people who want to funnel money illegally look for loopholes in the system to do so. For New Zealand, this National Government is working tirelessly to maintain our corruption-free brand name. National recognises, however, that there is a still a risk of organised crime, therefore we take it very seriously and understand we must remain vigilant. However, despite our best efforts, we will need to continuously be vigilant towards preventing organised crime. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000320\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003EThe current legislation will ensure we will comply with international legislation in this area. The bill also brings New Zealand domestic law into line with the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions. Further, this legislation provides us with the instruments to deal with international as well as domestic crime circuits. Regardless of how much we do, criminals will always try to cheat the system. Therefore, we must constantly keep ourselves a step ahead of our competition in dealing with such matters operationally and legislatively. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000321\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003EThere are two points that I would like to bring your attention to. This bill will be amending the people-trafficking offence so that it applies to such activities in New Zealand and not just when victims are moved in or out of the country. This bill will be amending the Policing Act 2008 to expressly provide police with the power to share information with their international counterparts. This is very important because sometimes the timely passing of the information may stop a crime. With these words, I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022 data-id=\u0022555f78c1ba41451fa6252074354c68e3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000322\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022555f78c1ba41451fa6252074354c68e3\u0022\u003EJAMES SHAW (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to support this bill\u2019s referral to the select committee, as well. I would like to start by associating myself with the comments made previously by the Hon Annette King and Chris Hipkins on the possibility of creeping corruption in New Zealand politics and the need to remain vigilant. New Zealand has an excellent reputation and has great standards in this area, but that is no reason for us not to continue to raise our standards, to modernise them, and to keep our eye on the ball.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EI particularly want to reinforce the comments that the Hon Annette King made in reference to Transparency International. I just want to acknowledge that it has an incredibly important role to play in keeping an eye on corruption around the world and in New Zealand. Many years ago when I was working at PricewaterhouseCoopers, looking at what kind of role the assurance industry had in this field, I was delighted to be able to interview the late Jeremy Pope, who was at that time the executive director of Transparency International based in London. He was a very fine New Zealander. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000324\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EThere are three things that I just want to make some brief comments on. I will keep this a fairly short call because many of the comments I was going to make have already been made. I do want to reinforce the point about people-trafficking. It is an absolutely extraordinarily terrible offence, and overseas many thousands and tens of thousands of women are trafficked and find themselves at the mercy of gangsters and the mafia. It is vital that New Zealand does all that it can to stamp out this scourge. It is slavery by another name. It is simply a modern form of slavery. We need to do everything we can to play our part in eradicating it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000325\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EThe comment has also been made that the perception of being corruption-free is important for business, and it is incredibly important for that. Again\u2014based on my experience internationally\u2014knowing that I came from New Zealand, people often remarked that it was a great place to do business because the people were straight up and they were fair, you could rely on that kind of a deal, and your money was going to be put to the purposes for which it was intended. It is incredibly important that we maintain that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000326\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EThis bill also brings us up to a modern standard, and this is a good thing. We originally signed the United Nations Convention Against Corruption in 2003, so it has taken more than 10 years to get us to this point where passing this legislation will enable us to ratify that convention, along with many of the other conventions that Annette King referred to. As we do so, we have to recognise that the ground is moving underneath us. As we pass this bill through the House, we just need to be very mindful that the things we are up against are also continuing to move, enabled by technology in a globalising world, and that we will need to not stop with this piece of legislation but keep our eye on further developments. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000327\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EThe Green Party supports this bill through to the select committee. We do have some things we want to keep an eye on. We have got some practical concerns that we would like to be addressed\u2014notably the requirement under the anti - money-laundering rules to report transactions of $1,000 or more. That has to be an absolutely enormous number of transactions. Again, through my own business, I know, being based in New Zealand but having a company based in London and clients based in other parts of the world, we are doing transactions all the time. I am a very, very small-business man. If you multiply that out across the number of businesses in New Zealand that are trading internationally, we just need to keep one eye on the practicalities of how we are going to manage that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000328\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EAnother one is around information sharing. This is an ongoing, developing concern in New Zealand that has had some publicity over the course of the last 12 months. I would like to refer to another bill here, which is one that was passed last year, the Taxation (Annual Rates, Employee Allowances, and Remedial Matters) Bill. It enabled the United States to look into the bank accounts of New Zealand citizens living in New Zealand if they also happened to be US citizens and were liable to pay US tax. That was an information-sharing agreement that we had with the United States, but it is a huge invasion of the privacy of people who are doing absolutely nothing wrong other than living in this country. We are giving a foreign Government the ability to look into the bank accounts of New Zealand citizens in this country and into New Zealand bank accounts as well. We want to keep an eye on that. We understand that information sharing is absolutely critical to being able to stamp out crime, but it is one thing we wanted to keep an eye on. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000329\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EWe support this bill and will be doing everything we can to ensure that the legislation does not infringe on New Zealanders\u2019 rights. We will be looking forward to seeing how this legislation meshes with the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act and any other concerns on how it will impinge on civil liberties. Having said that, we are very supportive of the aims of this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022 data-id=\u002242c62b68965946968e717ee7f4392a30\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000330\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002242c62b68965946968e717ee7f4392a30\u0022\u003EDENIS O\u2019ROURKE (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E New Zealand First is supporting this bill\u2019s referral to the Law and Order Committee. Any bill aimed at strengthening the law to combat organised crime and corruption is very welcome. The aim is to improve New Zealand\u2019s ability to collaborate with international efforts to disrupt organised crime, and that is also very welcome. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000331\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003ENew Zealand has an enviable reputation for being a corruption-free society, and international indexes commonly place us first or first equal among the least corrupt nations. That reputation has, of course, been hard-won, but it is much more easily lost. The effort to keep New Zealand corruption-free requires, I think, at least three things: first, a culture in which the people themselves reject and suppress corrupt practices and embrace honest and fair dealings; second, a robust legal system to outlaw corrupt practices, backed up by effective policing; and, third, good leadership from the top down. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000332\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003EWe have a superb legacy that has bequeathed us a largely corruption-free society, for which we can thank our forebears. We have good legislation, especially the Crimes Act, which is soon to be enhanced by this bill. The worrying element, of course, is in the quality of our leadership. I, and many others, have been deeply concerned about the revelations in Nicky Hager\u2019s Dirty Politics. It shows that the likes of Cameron Slater conduct smear campaigns, tell the filthiest of lies, and conduct other guttersnipe activities against politicians, civil servants, and others whom the current Government does not like. Not only that, but he is paid for it\u2014paid by companies with vested interests to pursue, and paid by others with a political agenda. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000333\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003EIt is perfectly obvious that the Prime Minister\u2019s office and, in my assessment, the Prime Minister himself, are involved in these activities. John Key makes no secret about his regular conversations with Slater, and he says that he does so not in his prime ministerial capacity, but few would be so gullible as to believe that. It is unfortunate that Mr Key is now able to claim a mandate to continue his dirty politics ways. He will now live for ever in our nation\u2019s history not only as Prime Minister but also as the \u201CMinister of Dirty Politics\u201D. On that issue the buck certainly stops with him. His obfuscation about his dealings with Slater only confirms his utter lack of leadership when it comes to good practice. He is, indisputably, the leader of just the opposite. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000334\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003EDespite that failing and the risk to New Zealand\u2019s reputation resulting from the Prime Minister\u2019s dirty politics activities and those of former Ministers, especially Judith Collins, the bill does have some very useful provisions. It allows New Zealand to ratify the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, it enables implementation of the agreement between the United States and New Zealand, and it facilitates compliance with a number of other international conventions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000335\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003EParticularly welcome are the changes made to the human-trafficking offence in the Crimes Act. The transnational element of the offence has been removed to ensure trafficking can be prosecuted regardless of whether the crime crosses a border. There are also amendments to address gaps in New Zealand\u2019s identity offence framework to ensure that the selling, transferring, distributing, importing, exporting, or otherwise making available of unlawfully obtained or manufactured identity information is a criminal offence. Similarly, the making, possessing, selling, exporting, and disposing of goods intended to facilitate the commission of identity-related crime are also criminalised. It is so easy with today\u2019s technology to steal information, so we need very strong laws to combat it. I now use a special envelope, especially when overseas, to carry my credit cards because criminals now have the technology to read them just by walking beside you. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000336\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003EMoney-laundering is also a booming criminal activity needing the strongest possible deterrent. This bill clarifies that intent to conceal is not a necessary element of the offence, and it removes the requirement that the property laundered must be the proceeds of an offence punishable by at least 5 years\u2019 imprisonment. The ability to detect and investigate money-laundering is also improved through amendments to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009. Financial institutions will be required to routinely report inherently high-risk transactions to the financial intelligence unit of the New Zealand Police. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000337\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003EThe bill also amends the Policing Act to expressly provide the police with the power to share personal information with their international counterparts. The Law and Order Committee will need to ensure that the safeguards are included to ensure that any information sharing is appropriate and will not infringe on the right to privacy of New Zealanders. We in New Zealand First will take a special interest in this part of the bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000338\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003EThe bill also contains amendments to enhance New Zealand\u2019s anti-corruption legislative frameworks and brings New Zealand into line with international best practice as set out by the United Nations conventions. It will update the definition of \u201Ccrime involving dishonesty\u201D in the Crimes Act to ensure that those convicted of corrupt offences cannot hold positions of trust in the community. That has been something of a gap in our law that certainly does need to be plugged. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003EThe foreign bribery offence in the Crimes Act is to be amended to remove the dual criminality requirement to ensure that New Zealand can effectively prosecute foreign bribery, regardless of whether it was an offence in the country in which the conduct occurred. There is a new offence too to criminalise the acceptance of a bribe by a foreign public official, and the acceptance of a bribe in return for using one\u2019s influence over an official. The offence of foreign bribery is also to be amended to clarify the circumstances in which a legal person is liable for foreign bribery. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000340\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003ELastly, it is very heartening to me that the bill substantially increases the penalties for bribery and corruption in the private sector. Some offences will be punishable by up to 20 years\u2019 imprisonment, and there are fines of up to $500,000 for some offences. I look forward to examining the bill further and welcome its introduction with a view to supporting it, if that should prove possible, after it has been examined through the select committee process.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cc9c47c0-4409-44ca-ad2f-498707f27d69\u0022 data-id=\u0022da73dc3942f74f51a718348215684547\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000341\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cc9c47c0-4409-44ca-ad2f-498707f27d69\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022da73dc3942f74f51a718348215684547\u0022\u003EJONATHAN YOUNG (National\u2014New Plymouth):\u003C/span\u003E Good afternoon, Mr Assistant Speaker Mallard. This is my first occasion to congratulate you on your very elevated position. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000342\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cc9c47c0-4409-44ca-ad2f-498707f27d69\u0022\u003EI am very happy to stand in support of the Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill. It is a bill that is going to continue to enhance New Zealand\u2019s reputation as being a country in the world that has a very strong and good reputation regarding law and order issues and also a country that protects its integrity around issues concerning organised crime and anti-corruption legislation. It is important to have pieces of legislation like this, which harmonise us with our key trading partners and nations overseas, because, increasingly, organised crime is becoming a borderless global issue. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000343\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cc9c47c0-4409-44ca-ad2f-498707f27d69\u0022\u003ENew Zealand law enforcement agencies are regularly being asked to contribute to overseas investigations of organised criminal activity and, therefore, we need to be up with the play in terms of not only our legislation law enforcement but also the technologies that protect our societies. It is very important that we do this because we know that organised criminal networks and operations are opportunistic and highly adaptable, moving rapidly to any perceived vulnerabilities in legal frameworks or in technology, trade, or financial systems. It is important to have that level of integrity in order that we are not seen as a vulnerable place or an easy place for crime to make its home. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000344\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cc9c47c0-4409-44ca-ad2f-498707f27d69\u0022\u003EOur comprehensive approach to fighting all forms of organised crime will help safeguard New Zealand\u2019s economy now and into the future, our international reputation, and also public safety. We have a zero-tolerance approach to domestic corruption. New Zealand and its institutions are consistently perceived as the least corrupt in the world. We are highly ranked on several integrity measures, including first equal out of 182 countries in Transparency International\u2019s 2013 Corruption Perceptions Index and first out of 132 countries in the 2014 Social Progress Index. So we can be proud as a nation of those achievements and those standings. We must, however, continue this work that we do in order to protect our country from corruption, organised crime, and money-laundering. I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022 data-id=\u00223fb36b3f990a4bda9bcfd21f81f603c3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000345\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223fb36b3f990a4bda9bcfd21f81f603c3\u0022\u003EDAVID CLENDON (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I am pleased to take a short call on this Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill. Just to reiterate what my colleague has said earlier, the Greens will be supporting this bill through to the select committee because we see that it does achieve some important and necessary things. A number of speakers have made the point that we do have a very, very good international reputation as being a country that, if not entirely free of corruption, at least rates very highly in international comparisons around corruption. But one must never sit resting on laurels, assuming that we are immune to these sorts of intrusions into our society and into our legal practice, in either the public or the private sector. There are provisions around trafficking of people. On the face of it we think that trafficking of people is something that happens in other countries. But in quite recent times we have seen examples at the lower end of the scale where people have been exploited. People have come into New Zealand, found themselves in very unhelpful employment situations, and some of the teeth that this bill will carry will have an influence on managing\u2014or discouraging, should I say\u2014people from going down that road to deliberately exploit people and their labour in ways that New Zealanders simply will not find acceptable in any way. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000346\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EI am pleased that the provisions, particularly around organised crime, do reflect a somewhat more sophisticated debate than we have had in recent years about organised crime, because for far too long reference to organised crime has immediately brought out references to gang problems in New Zealand. I am under no illusion that, yes, some of the organised criminality in New Zealand is carried out by gangs and gang members\u2014members of some gangs, I should say. But I think that for too long we have simply dismissed the whole business of organised crime and gangs as being conflated. We had this entirely unhelpful notion of suppressing gangs and a misapprehension that by doing so we would suppress organised crime. In fact, more recently, we have seen a much more enlightened attitude, and I just quote the former Minister of Police Ms Tolley, who said earlier this year that we need to accept that you are never going to arrest your way out of the gang culture. She noted in passing, after an overseas trip, that dealing with gangs as a community problem, as a multifaceted, complex set of issues\u2014not simply as a matter to try to suppress\u2014was much more likely to generate more positive outcomes and more useful solutions. So in that sense we do welcome the legislation and it will introduce a much more helpful, sophisticated debate around the nature, the appearance, and the reality of organised crime in New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000347\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EThere are one or two minor and not so minor concerns we have about the bill. Clearly there are privacy issues incorporated into some of the provisions, which are always matters that we take seriously, as I am sure other parties do. New Zealanders rate their right to privacy very highly, as indeed we have seen in this very House in relatively recent times. Again, we must never be complacent or assume that privacy measures are adequate to the moment, particularly with the speed and accessibility of electronic communication of all sorts. So although I think in general we can offer significant support for this bill, we do look forward to the select committee process and to encouraging and hearing from people with a level of expertise across quite a whole range of matters and issues that are contained in it, given this is an omnibus bill, and we will actively participate in that and we look forward to further debates.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u0022be7aec105388430f8e825eade55cd305\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000348\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022be7aec105388430f8e825eade55cd305\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: Carmel Sepuloni, a 5-minute call.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022 data-id=\u0022b6a9dad43ecb45f7bf6636407c663243\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000349\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b6a9dad43ecb45f7bf6636407c663243\u0022\u003ECARMEL SEPULONI (Labour\u2014Kelston):\u003C/span\u003E I just stand in support of this Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill, because Labour does support this bill, and it is good to see this bill finally come before the House. It was introduced by the former Minister of Justice Judith Collins, but it was never put forward for debate despite her saying she would do so by the end of 2013. Reflecting on the purpose of the bill, I note that the aim of this bill is to strengthen the law to combat organised crime and corruption. We on this side of the House certainly are in support of that. The bill allows New Zealand to ratify the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, and enables implementation of the agreement between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of New Zealand on enhancing cooperation and preventing and combating crime. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000350\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003EEarlier we heard some of our speakers talk about the importance of the ranking that we get internationally from Transparency International. In the past New Zealand has always ranked very high in terms of having a transparent and accountable Government. We are concerned that, given recent events, that ranking may be negatively affected, particularly given some of the recent scandals that the National Government has been involved in and some of the allegations that have been made against the National Government, including some of its Ministers, and that also implicated the Prime Minister with regard to some behaviour that may not be deemed appropriate for any Government internationally. When the upcoming rankings from Transparency International come out, we will be watching very carefully to see whether or not the National Government\u2019s antics, the National Government\u2019s unhealthy engagement with\u2014what shall we call them? What types of characters are they?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000351\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022490ccdbf-7c22-4e12-98f2-f3aa08f8e676\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b7951f3ea09d47b2aa99e1a9b6d1f021\u0022\u003EIain Lees-Galloway\u003C/span\u003E: Unseemly.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000352\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002294122b98c182412785972aee0e505710\u0022\u003ECARMEL SEPULONI\u003C/span\u003E: Unseemly characters. We will be watching to see whether or not those relationships and those connections have an impact on our own ranking internationally in terms of transparency. This is very important in terms of how other countries look at us, in terms of how we are perceived on the world stage, and we have always taken great pride in the fact that we are seen as a country that is not affected by any level of corruption at the Government level. So we will be watching very carefully. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000353\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003EWe have a proud tradition of being an honest nation that takes a strong stance against organised crime and corruption. For this we have been rewarded with a consistent ranking of being amongst the least corrupt countries in the world. However, as I said, in recent years this has changed substantially with a lessening of transparency from this Government and multiple flagrant examples of corruption including, to name one of many, Judith Collins\u2019 own trip to China to promote her husband\u2019s company, Oravida, which I am sure we in this House are all aware of, the media is aware of, and the general public are only too aware of. The irony is that Collins was actually on a trip to China to speak about reducing corruption, yet she was visiting Oravida to further her husband\u2019s business ties. National continues to look after itself and the privileged few at the expense of Kiwis. I think we have seen that. There is concern generally across the public about that. That type of behaviour can have an impact on the perception around how transparent we are, whether our Government is living up to expectations, and just whether or not it is living up to the expectations in terms of accountability that you would expect from any First World country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000354\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003ENowhere was the concern that the country has around corruption shown more clearly than in recent revelations in the Dirty Politics book. It was a real eye-opener for the whole country, I think, in respect of, for instance, the fact that some friends of the National Party could access Official Information Act requests much faster than the media or other politicians seeking to hold the Government to account. There was concern about the corrupt nature of that. The circumstances surrounding the resignation of Judith Collins are actually a national disgrace, and I think we need to really take that into consideration and touch on that when we are looking at this particular bill, which, ironically, was supposed to be introduced in the House by the former Minister of Justice Judith Collins, but she never got to that point. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a6c42c44-3622-4c9c-98b8-793fb5ec15cc\u0022 data-id=\u00228889fd048e214bea93766d28b8eaf63d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000355\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a6c42c44-3622-4c9c-98b8-793fb5ec15cc\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00228889fd048e214bea93766d28b8eaf63d\u0022\u003EIAN McKELVIE (National\u2014Rangit\u012Bkei):\u003C/span\u003E It is a great pleasure to be able to stand in this House and address you as the Assistant Speaker\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000356\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ca665fb30cbb44059b507be974389e17\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: I welcome that, and I am slightly surprised that the member for Rangit\u012Bkei is speaking during the Melbourne Cup, but we will just keep going.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000357\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a6c42c44-3622-4c9c-98b8-793fb5ec15cc\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002236c8ad47158043d9b300a61c28c4bea8\u0022\u003EIAN McKELVIE\u003C/span\u003E: Well, I have got to go on to that. Thank you for reminding me of it. I have to say that I am absolutely distraught to think that I am speaking on a bill called the Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill right at the very moment the 156th Melbourne Cup is being run down in my office. Unfortunately, the race is not on the screens up here in the gallery, and I do not understand it. Imagine being in Australia if they did not have the Melbourne Cup up on the screens, particularly during a bill named the Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000358\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a6c42c44-3622-4c9c-98b8-793fb5ec15cc\u0022\u003EI am very pleased to support this bill on behalf of the Government. I guess I was a little disappointed at the last speech by Carmel Sepuloni. I thought it really emphasised the tragedy that the modern Labour Party is. Obviously, the key message from this bill is that New Zealand prides itself on its place in the world in respect of anti-corruption and, I guess, on the transparent nature of business and order in this country. I think we do very well as a country. This bill will help to reinforce that and will certainly strengthen our position in respect of international respect for our business and transparency in the way we do business. It will also enable us to get control of a whole lot of issues that we are at risk of running into problems with, particularly with money-laundering, international crime, and the way they are treated in New Zealand. I have got a great deal of pleasure in supporting this bill, and with that I will go and watch the Melbourne Cup.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u0022bcccb94fac314cdda2b21f660fc29b63\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000359\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022bcccb94fac314cdda2b21f660fc29b63\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: Megan Woods, with a better sense of timing.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022 data-id=\u0022b3b58b68edfe4caf9d1e1ea602815741\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000360\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b3b58b68edfe4caf9d1e1ea602815741\u0022\u003EDr MEGAN WOODS (Labour\u2014Wigram):\u003C/span\u003E It is my pleasure to take a call on this bill for Labour, which is supporting it. I wish the member for Rangit\u012Bkei good wishes. He is going back to his office, where apparently the Melbourne Cup is being run. It is all in the use of a comma, which I think could have made quite a difference. So enjoy the race and I hope your horse comes in. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000361\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EIt is a pleasure to speak on this bill and to outline Labour\u2019s support for it, because I think there are some very serious elements to what is a reasonably comprehensive piece of legislation, an omnibus bill that seeks to address a number of measures and has its genesis a long way back. In fact, its genesis was in the previous Labour Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000362\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EIf we have a look at this Government\u2019s work on this, in August 2011 Cabinet agreed to an all-of-Government response to organised crime in New Zealand. What we can actually see, if we have a look at the legislation that has been put in place around organised crime and anti-corruption in New Zealand, is a flurry of this legislation in the relatively recent past. We have seen the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act in 2009, the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009, and the Search and Surveillance Act 2012. This is a piece of legislation that very much fits in with these bills in making its contribution to controlling this matter. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000363\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003ESo what this legislation seeks to do is to establish an effective tool box for targeting organised crime in New Zealand and enabling the law enforcement that our agencies need to be agile and able to quickly and effectively respond to new challenges as they emerge, and I think one of the things that we can see is that new challenges are something that constantly present themselves. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000364\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EPrevious speakers in this debate have spoken about New Zealand\u2019s great reputation. The fact is that we consistently rank really highly in Transparency International\u2019s findings and that we are first equal out of 102 countries. We do, as a country, take a great source of pride\u2014and so we should\u2014about having an open society. But we do have to realise\u2014and this legislation does acknowledge this\u2014that we are not immune to domestic and transnationally generated organised crime. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000365\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EThe police\u2019s 2010 assessment, Organised Crime in New Zealand, documents a wide array of organised criminal markets and activities ranging from drug-use crime to fraud, to intellectual property theft, to cyber-crime, and to environmental crime, and these activities significantly impact on our communities, our international reputation, and our international reputation in international markets. If we take, for example, New Zealand\u2019s methamphetamine market, it is estimated to be worth $1.2 billion per year and contains organised criminal group involvement from production right through to consumption. So these are real issues in our communities that we do need to address. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000366\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EAlthough I have outlined some of the legislative measures that we have in this country to combat organised crime, there is a well-accepted acceptance\u2014if I could say such a phrase\u2014that we have many non-legislative mechanisms as well to target organised crime. But what the regulatory impact statement of this bill really does is identify seven key areas where this needs to be addressed. In her address opening this debate for Labour, the Hon Annette King talked about the first case in this country when we had a person on trial for human trafficking. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000367\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EIf we look at the regulatory impact statement for this bill, which was produced in only 2013, we can see that it says that \u201CWhile this is not considered to be a considerable risk in New Zealand, in recent years New Zealand has come under criticism for perceived gaps in the trafficking in persons offence from the United Nations Human Rights Committee and from the United States in their Trafficking in Persons Report.\u201D So we can see how swiftly we do have to move. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000368\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EAs previous speakers have noted, we do need to be vigilant. Our excellent international reputation has not occurred by accident. It has occurred because we see a great deal of merit and we have taken a great deal of pride in the mechanisms and the transparency that we have at all levels in our country, and that needs to start with our Government. That is where we have to have the utmost levels of transparency, and it is fair to say that in recent months and weeks questions have arisen around the level of transparency that this Government is operating in, and many of my colleagues have gone through some of those matters. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000369\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EBut if we look at some of the mechanisms where we need to have transparency, one of the key mechanisms that we have is the Official Information Act, and that is there to allow individuals and private citizens to find out what is going on with their Government\u2014to be able to find out what it is that the people who wield power are doing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000370\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EIf we look at the abuse of the Official Information Act system that has been happening under this Government, it is something that is cause for alarm. We have the Prime Minister\u2019s office telling blogger Cameron Slater to \u201COIA\u201D classified SIS documents, then have the SIS declassify those documents and quickly release them to this blogger. This is not something that we can tolerate from our Government. We have the Prime Minister\u2019s office and other ministerial offices tipping off bloggers when an Official Information Act request is about to be released to an Opposition party or a media outlet and telling them to put in a request for the information in the Official Information Act request, which is then provided. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000371\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EWe have this as a means of quelling criticism of a Government, and that is one of my major concerns here\u2014that if we are going to have a country where we value transparency, where we value anti-corruption, and where we value the fact that we can have people who can speak out and be a critic of the Government, we cannot have an organised ring in which the Government is implicated in stopping that informed debate, and stopping that debate by the denigration of people\u2019s reputations and by seeking to destroy people, not by arguing on the merits and the facts. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000372\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EWe see this when we have 33 of the top health academics and professionals in this country writing an open letter to the Prime Minister to tell him that they are uncomfortable about the perceived conflict of interest around Katherine Rich\u2019s appointment to the Health Promotion Agency because that very person had been part of an organised attack on nutritional scientists at the University of Otago who had put out information that was counter to what her agency wanted to see. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000373\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EI enjoy debate. I have no problem with any organisation entering into a very robust debate around what is happening and arguing about the facts, but is that what happened? No, that is not what happened. We had the person putting out the information\u2014the person whose research this was\u2014being attacked. We had her reputation called into question, not her science, not her finding, and not even the quality of the writing in her paper, which sometimes academics could be held to account for. No, it was her as a person. This is what we simply cannot tolerate in this country, and we certainly cannot tolerate it when we have our Government and our Prime Minister\u2019s office implicated in it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000374\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003ESo we are very happy to support this legislation going to a select committee. We think there are some really serious issues in here that this legislation will cover off. I agree with a previous speaker who said that at the select committee there do need to be some serious questions and some probing done from all sides of the House around where civil liberties fit in and what protections can be put in place to protect those. But, as a House, we cannot simply pass legislation around protecting ourselves against corruption and putting in place mechanisms for transparency and think that we are immune from those issues as well, because transparency and having an open Government that lives up to the reputation that we as New Zealanders hold dear starts with us in this House. It starts with everybody on both sides of this House, and it is not something that we can afford to let go of. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000375\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003EWe have had it said by this organised racket that the people in the city where I live are scum. We have had the family of people killed on the West Coast called feral. We have had academics attacked. We have had teachers attacked. We have had people who dared to criticise attacked. The question for me is who is next, and that is not something that we can tolerate. Thank you very much.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00229884e8e8-651f-4f48-a429-70b72d5e2821\u0022 data-id=\u00224ae95f50eb154a21828a6ce0e5c7d1ce\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000376\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229884e8e8-651f-4f48-a429-70b72d5e2821\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224ae95f50eb154a21828a6ce0e5c7d1ce\u0022\u003ESARAH DOWIE (National\u2014Invercargill):\u003C/span\u003E In summary, this bill is designed to combat organised crime and corruption. It will aid and strengthen New Zealand\u2019s reputation as a fair and transparent country and enhance the robustness of our legal system not only for growth for business but on a human rights level. In particular, it ratifies the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and seals our place internationally against corruption. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000377\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229884e8e8-651f-4f48-a429-70b72d5e2821\u0022\u003EI am delighted at the cross-party support, despite some of the Opposition\u2019s most colourful examples used to illustrate corruption. But, as such, I am pleased to support this bill\u2019s referral to a select committee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000378\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229884e8e8-651f-4f48-a429-70b72d5e2821\u0022\u003EBill read a first time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000379\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229884e8e8-651f-4f48-a429-70b72d5e2821\u0022\u003EBill referred to the Law and Order Committee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000380\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002255f797406e344465b09458a45b211edc\u0022\u003EPolicing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000381\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00220071d39d22c5462bb7922e9ece809602\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022 data-id=\u00222454039cf52043c2aeb4d7ad7220110c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000382\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222454039cf52043c2aeb4d7ad7220110c\u0022\u003EHon ANNE TOLLEY (Minister for Social Development)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Minister of Police: I move, That the Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill be now read a first time. I nominate the Law and Order Committee to consider the bill. This bill amends the Policing Act 2008 to enable cost recovery for certain police services. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000383\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EThe New Zealand Police provides a wide range of services to the general public, and to public and private sector agencies and organisations in a variety of locations and settings. Most of the services that police provide are core statutory functions and are for the benefit of the general public. Examples of such services include responding to calls for assistance, and conducting criminal investigations and prosecutions. These services are provided for society\u2019s general benefit. The provision of such core policing services will not be affected by this bill. However, some services delivered by police, although still important and highly valued by the public, provide a significant degree of private benefit to individuals or particular groups, and it is appropriate to shift the cost of funding at least some of these services from the general taxpayer to the specific beneficiaries of these services. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000384\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EIn many overseas jurisdictions, such demand services already attract a fee to cover the cost of providing this service. For example, all police services in all Australian jurisdictions currently apply a cost recovery regime for certain policing services. The New Zealand Police is one of the few police services that do not have legislation that explicitly allows for some degree of cost recovery. Cost recovery will enable police to meet the cost of increases in demand for certain services, thereby avoiding placing additional strain on the public purse or shifting resources towards those services at the expense of core front-line police activities. It will also safeguard the delivery of these services by ensuring their future sustainability. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000385\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EThe public clearly understands this strategy, and during the initial public consultation undertaken by police in 2013, two-thirds of submitters agreed that it is appropriate for police to have the ability to recover costs in some instances. This response is consistent with the public feedback that the previous Labour-led Government received during its consultation in 2006-07, during its review of the Police Act. At that time 75 percent of respondents from the general public supported cost recovery being applied in some situations. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000386\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EThis bill, firstly, sets out the types of police services that may be the subject of cost recovery. These are demand services as defined in the bill. Secondly, the bill sets out the criteria on which cost recovery is to be based. These broadly relate to justifiability, equity, efficiency, and transparency. Thirdly, the bill sets out consultation provisions; fourthly, methods of cost recovery; fifthly, the provision of exemptions and waivers of any prescribed fees or charges; and, finally, amendments to the Act to provide that regulations may be made by Order in Council, on the recommendation of the Minister of Police, prescribing fees and charges for demand services. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EAs set out in the bill, a \u201Cdemand service\u201D is defined as a service that is requested by, and is of direct benefit to, an individual or organisation, although there may also be an indirect benefit to the public as a whole. Police vetting is listed as an example of a demand service. For avoidance of doubt, certain core police functions are excluded from the definition. Prior to recommending regulations to prescribe a fee for any particular service, the Minister of Police must be satisfied that the service is a demand service, that the service and principles are consistent with the specified criteria that have been drawn from Treasury\u2019s and the Auditor-General\u2019s guidelines for setting charges in the public sector, and that due consultation has been undertaken with the affected parties. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000388\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EFollowing the passage of this bill, it is intended to introduce policing regulations to enable cost recovery for the police vetting service, along with a charging regime for that service. At present the police vetting service is the only demand service being proposed for cost recovery. Police undertake the vetting of employees and volunteers for approved public sector and private sector agencies involved in a variety of public interaction activities such as education, community services, caregiving, and other health services. The vetting service provides employers with relevant background information on potential employees that may have a bearing on the suitability of an individual to work in a particular environment, interact with potentially vulnerable people, or handle sensitive information. In 2013 there were around 457,700 requests to use the police vetting service, and the demand is steadily rising. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000389\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EA number of recent national and international developments have put increasing pressure on the police vetting service. For example, the introduction of mandatory safety checks for paid members of the children\u2019s workforce, as set out in the Vulnerable Children Act 2014; the proposed agreement with Australia for the sharing of criminal history information on individuals for employment vetting purposes; and the potential vetting of individuals from New Zealand who are seeking employment in the United Kingdom, Canada, or the United States. So the proposed regulations would allow police to charge for these individual vets so as to recoup the costs involved. This will help safeguard the delivery of the vetting service and ensure its future sustainability in the face of that increasing demand, and it will also incentivise efficiencies by both police and the users of the service. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000390\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003ESo users of the police vetting service will be asked to pay a small fee for something they have previously received for free. The vetting service fee will be around $7 per check. The equivalent fees in the Australian jurisdictions are considerably higher. For example, it costs A$52 for a national police check from the New South Wales Police Force, and in South Australia the fee is A$56.50 for a national police certificate, which details an individual\u2019s offending history. It is expected that most organisations will be able to absorb the vetting service costs with little impact on the volume or quality of their services. Many organisations could pass these costs on to the individuals who derive a private benefit from the end result. However, for those organisations that cannot meet the costs incurred, provision has been made in the bill for fees to be waived in some cases. We are anticipating that this would be done in accordance with publicly available guidelines, and that, for example, fees could be waived for some volunteers in specific situations. The guidelines would be reviewed after 18 months of operation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000391\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EI am proposing that the bill not be enacted before June 2015, and that regulations setting out fees for police vetting would not come into force before July 2015. I am also signalling that there will need to be an amendment to the land transport regulations when the policing regulations are made. This is so the vetting fee for the checks that police undertake for the New Zealand Transport Agency, currently set at $28.20, is aligned with other vetting fees. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000392\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EIn summary, enabling police to recover the costs of certain police services will improve the way police resources are used, enhance service delivery, and provide better value for money. I believe there is a strong case for cost recovery for services where the benefit primarily accrues to individuals and private organisations rather than to the public as a whole. I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022 data-id=\u0022242d11c659f14b1ea1ccc08f45d21d5d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000393\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022242d11c659f14b1ea1ccc08f45d21d5d\u0022\u003EHon PHIL GOFF (Labour\u2014Mt Roskill):\u003C/span\u003E The Labour Party will vote for the first reading of this bill with some rather strong reservations. We believe it should go to a select committee. It should be subject at the select committee to public submissions and very close analysis of what it involves. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000394\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EWhen I first picked up this bill I thought I would probably be quite supportive of its content, because I thought that there are clearly things where police services are required and cost recovery might be justifiable. If Mick Jagger is coming to sing at Westpac Stadium and they are making millions of dollars out of it and we are providing police services, it is profit making\u2014yes, I have no problem with that. They should meet some of the cost of policing a commercial and profit-making arrangement. When I read the Police Association\u2019s submission, it used that same example, or it could have used a professional sporting event, because that is also about making money. But when I pick up this bill I find that it is not about that at all. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000395\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EThis bill sets out in its explanatory note that at present\u2014at present\u2014the only service being proposed for cost recovery is the police vetting service. As I read that out, I looked at Kelvin Davis because he is a teacher. Do you know what the largest organisation is that uses the services of police vetting? It is the Teachers Council. There was that experiment back in the 1990s when the National Government decided that, actually, teachers and people who work at schools did not need to be vetted. It was a disaster. It was an absolute disaster, and the Government had to bring vetting back. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000396\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EWhat is really important about this is that the Minister of Police is telling us that this is not a core function of the police. You know, I picked up the Policing Act 2008, and what are the functions of the police? They include maintaining public safety, crime prevention, and community support and reassurance. I would have thought that the police role\u2014and it is mandatory under a 2001 piece of legislation\u2014of vetting people for their suitability for looking after our most vulnerable citizens, our kids, in the classroom, at schools, and at preschool met the primary functions of the police, which is maintaining public safety, ensuring crime prevention, and community support and reassurance. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000397\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EAnother of the organisations that this is going to relate to is Child, Youth and Family. I would have thought that vetting people working in Child, Youth and Family\u2014for the benefit not only of children but, in particular, vulnerable children\u2014was a core function. I would have thought that our many charities and all of those groups that take on volunteers to work for the public good, who are not paid, but who are subject to mandatory vetting, would be excluded.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000398\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f09085d4a3a747ffa5ca463ad2ba32a7\u0022\u003EMike Sabin\u003C/span\u003E: The benefit is right across; that\u2019s right.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000399\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002260268372f6da4daa8f3c9d5089b3cfea\u0022\u003EHon PHIL GOFF\u003C/span\u003E: But I find from reading the papers, Mr Sabin, that that is not intended. Maybe some of the volunteer groups are but certainly not the largest groups that might use it\u2014the Teachers Council and Child, Youth and Family. And who are the beneficiaries of those services? Are the beneficiaries people who make money out of it? No, the beneficiaries are our kids. So whom is the Government intending to charge for that vetting service? Will it charge the teachers? Will it charge the social workers? Will it charge the schools? Will it come down to the parents of those kids who are being protected having to pay? Does this not look like simply another form of hidden taxation? Lower the tax rates on the very wealthy, cut the top tax rates, and sneak in taxes where they can be hidden away. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000400\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EYou know, I have great respect for the role of the police, I want the police to carry out their functions, and I do not want them, as a rule, to be a cost recovery organisation. The police are there for the public good, and where the goal is the public good, there should be no charging. What we expected was a bill that said that we will charge the entertainment industry and we will charge the big professional sporting organisations, but we get a bill that is going to charge our kids, our teachers, our schools, and our social workers. I am not in favour of that. Keeping our kids safe, preventing crime, and assuring the public that those who work with our children are fit and proper people to do so are core functions of the police that should not be about cost recovery. It is not profit making; it is public good, and that is the way that it should be. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000401\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EI have given some more thought as to why we have got this bill before us. Yes, this was something that was considered in the review leading up to the Policing Act 2008. It was something that the Labour Government decided not to do, and with very good reason. Why is the Government trying to do it now?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000402\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cd9d6de56048478e97c5d5980ca05549\u0022\u003EMike Sabin\u003C/span\u003E: What was it? What was the reason?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000403\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228614d446066240b3a7f512ef12133068\u0022\u003EHon PHIL GOFF\u003C/span\u003E: The reason is set out, actually, in the public consultation document that was about the cost recovery of policing services. This is what it says: \u201CThe allocation of resources across competing services is finely balanced. The future sustainability of Police services depends on there being room for improvements or investment in new areas requiring additional Police resources; \u2026 Ultimately, cost recovery provides an opportunity to free up some Police resources and better ensure funding is focussed on [other] areas\u201D. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000404\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EWe have this bill before the House because for 6 years this National Government has cut the funding for our police force in real terms\u2014in real terms. I went to the Parliamentary Library and asked it whether it could give me the real level of funding in 2010 and the real level of funding this year, and to tell me how much extra the Government has invested in policing. Do you know what the answer was? It was not anything extra; the Government had cut the police budget in real terms by $114 million\u2014a $114 million cut to the police budget. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000405\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003ESo what has that forced the police to do? Well, they have closed community police stations, have they not? Let us list them around my area\u2014St Lukes, Mount Albert, and Blockhouse Bay. They did not have the courage to say that they were cutting the Mount Roskill police station, but they did cut it. It was temporarily closed for 2\u00BD years before they had the courage to admit that it was closed to the public. They have delayed recruiting police officers, so the actual number of serving police officers fell last year\u2014it fell. We had a smaller number of police officers than the minimum level of police officers that should be out there on the front line. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000406\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EOf course, in this Budget, we saw cuts in core operating expenditure. What were those cuts? They were for $40 million in the Budget this year\u2014$40 million this year alone. What were the areas cut? Crime prevention\u2014$3.5 million was taken out of that. For investigations, $7 million was taken from that. And for primary response\u2014and you would think that was really important. How many of us have had constituents complain that when they were burgled they rang up the police and the police said: \u201CYeah, we\u2019ll get to it eventually. Don\u2019t touch anything because we\u2019ll eventually fingerprint it. Don\u2019t replace the broken sliding door\u2014I know it\u2019s the middle of winter, but we\u2019ll get there eventually.\u201D? Well, do we blame the police officer? No, we do not blame the police officer, because $7 million was cut out of primary response for the police this year. Road policing\u2014and we are meant to really put that on a pedestal\u2014was cut by $10 million. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EThis has had a dramatic impact. The police have been placed in the position now where they are being told by this Government that there will be no increase in real terms, to forget the fact that policing is a fundamental responsibility of the New Zealand Government, and that the Government wants them to go out and get money from the people they provide services to. And where will they start? They will start with schoolkids. Yes, that is the sort of Government we really want, is it not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000408\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002236ed9a05a2374b8782ec1d4842c22291\u0022\u003ECarmel Sepuloni\u003C/span\u003E: And the social workers.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000409\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a23bfed5bce74213ba933e977f79c60a\u0022\u003EHon PHIL GOFF\u003C/span\u003E: And the social workers. If we are going to have cost recovery, let us put it in the right place. Let us put it on the commercial profit-making organisations. Let us not put it on those core functions that we expect, as of right, the police to provide the public with.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022 data-id=\u002242bd7c080bad48fdaad43b4f3174518a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000410\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002242bd7c080bad48fdaad43b4f3174518a\u0022\u003EMIKE SABIN (National\u2014Northland):\u003C/span\u003E I agree with the Hon Phil Goff on the last points that he made. It is certainly very explicit, from what I can see, that the cost recovery that is under discussion and relates specifically to this bill deals with a direct benefit to a particular individual or organisation. If Mr Goff is seriously suggesting that $7 per police vetting for the narrow field of people who would fit the definition of the private individual getting a greater benefit than the public good\u2014the $7 for clipping that ticket\u2014is somehow the police\u2019s only way to recover this massive hole in the budget that he seems to think there is, then I think that is slightly delusional. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000411\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003EThe reality is that this is about cost recovery; it is not about profit making. It is about recovering costs where the police are providing a service to an individual or organisation that goes above and beyond the interests of the wider public. I am sure that a very important part of the focus of the select committee process, and the submissions, will be to see exactly where it is that various stakeholders see that that line sits. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000412\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003EI think it is very clear, certainly from this National Government\u2019s perspective. It is very important that the police provide the services they do. Once upon a time it was called a police force, was it not? Now it is a police service, or what have you. The world moves on; it is a different place. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000413\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003EThis is not about changing the way the police go about doing business; it is about saying that where there are individuals who will accrue a personal benefit, or where there is an individual who will essentially benefit, without the public enjoying that wider benefit in terms of police time and police resources, then, possibly, there should be some recovery of that cost\u2014at a very, very minimal cost. It is important to note that we are one of the very few\u2014I have not dug far enough to find out whether there are any other jurisdictions that do not actually have any form of cost recovery, but it is actually very commonplace. It goes a lot further than what has just been suggested here in terms of cost recovery for police vetting. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000414\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003ESo it is important, I think, to understand that there is a greater use of police resources and a greater use of police time, and that there are constraints, therefore, on other services that the police can provide to the wider public as a result of doing police vetting. It is about getting a balance that ensures that if there are costs associated with that, and the individual or the organisation gets a private benefit that is over and above or usurps the greater public good, then there is an opportunity for the police to recover some of those costs and, arguably, to put those funds back into more effective public services and into the better delivery of better public services. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000415\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003EAs the Minister mentioned, the Policing Act currently does not specifically enable this to happen. Obviously, it has been looked at, some time before. It is very much about recovering costs. I would suggest that it is about only just recovering costs. You will get no complaints from me about the fact that it has been a very, very tough time for public sector organisations such as the New Zealand Police to work through a global financial crisis and the problems that we have had financially as a nation with the Canterbury earthquakes. Everyone has had to cut their cloth to fit, and it has been a very challenging time. One thing I will say is that we can dish out a huge bouquet to the police in the sense that what they have done is entirely change their focus far more so to a prevention focus. They have been far better resourced in terms of their equipment and tools of the job, if you like, to be able to get out there and actually put more effective man hours on the street. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000416\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022721a14ca-e9d5-4c2e-b3ef-03d03e4fea07\u0022\u003EThe way we are policing today is not the same way we were doing it 10, 15, or 20 years ago. I anticipate that that will continue to evolve, for a number of reasons. It is not a case that there is just a blank cheque that can be written out. The balance, of course, is always ensuring that the public are protected and that we have a sinking lid on the amount of crime. The reality is that we are in a position where we have a 35-year low in crime rates. We can get a little bit cynical about statistics from time to time, but the reality is that if you look at the morale of the police and you look at the public satisfaction, they are both good. They are both saying that the police, in very, very tough times, are doing a very, very good job. Sure, in a perfect world we would have resourced them with more, we would do more and be able to achieve more and there would not be any crime, but the reality is that that is not the world we live in, and it is important that we are always looking to strike the appropriate balance that does not compromise the greater good for the public. I believe that this bill provides an opportunity for us to ask that question and get that balance right, when it comes to police vetting. I commend the bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022 data-id=\u0022e3709df5f6ed4a3385ff858b63f280bd\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000417\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e3709df5f6ed4a3385ff858b63f280bd\u0022\u003EKELVIN DAVIS (Labour\u2014Te Tai Tokerau):\u003C/span\u003E I will start on the Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill at the conclusion of the regulatory impact statement, which says: \u201CCurrently, Police is unable to charge for most of the functions designated under the Policing Act 2008.\u201D, except in certain circumstances, such as the recovery of licensing fees for firearms. This means that the New Zealand Police has limited or no control over demand-driven services and is unable to expand its resources to meet expanding demand. Well, it just seems strange to me\u2014if there is expanding demand, then there should be an expanding budget to go with that expanding demand. As my colleague Phil Goff has said, the police budget has actually been cut. In fact, in Budget 2014 the police received significant cuts. The output expenses for police were reduced from $1.503 billion to $1.461 billion\u2014that is over $40 million in cuts this year. These cuts are putting real strain on the police force. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000418\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EI have just heard Mike Sabin say that morale in the police force is up there. The reality is that under National the average number of police resignations per month has skyrocketed compared with under Labour, increasing from 14.2 resignations a month in 2009 to 50.7\u201450.7\u2014police resignations a month in 2013. To claim that morale in the police force is actually on the rise is a misnomer. Up in the north, I have family in the police, I have friends in the police\u2014in fact, I have been contacted by policemen who are concerned about their jobs, and, in fact, their stations will be closed, as Phil Goff mentioned. They have rung me\u2014obviously, they do not want to be named\u2014to say that they are really concerned about small police stations such as the one in Kawakawa, where I was born and bred, and are worried about their jobs. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000419\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EThe budget cuts are one of the big drivers of the strain on police. Those cuts, as Phil Goff has said, reduce their core operating expenditure\u2014for example, $3.5 million was cut from general crime prevention, $7 million was cut from investigations, and $7 million was cut from primary responses. As Phil Goff said, the old ranchslider has been broken into, but because the police are under strain and so many officers are resigning every month, there are fewer of them to go out and do those investigations in a timely manner. There is also another cut of $10 million to road policing. These are the core functions of the police that are being put at risk as a result of those cuts. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000420\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EBut the Minister was right\u2014there is some public appetite for the recouping of some costs. I will just go through a few of them. Of the 102 submitters who responded to the question of whether the police should be able to recover the costs of certain services, 66 percent broadly supported the proposal. A large number of these submitters commented that cost recovery would be appropriate in certain or limited situations where the services are not core police functions, and where the benefit is to only an individual user or private organisation. So of the 35 submitters who were mostly opposed to the police introducing cost recovery for certain services, some were concerned that it could set a precedent for a range of police services being user-pays, and that the charging could not be applied appropriately to public policing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000421\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EOne of the things we are a bit concerned about is this thin end of the wedge towards privatising our police force. Another issue raised by some of those opposed to the police recovering costs was the possibility of a cost recovery regime leading to inequitable treatment of paying customers versus non-paying customers. We would hate to see the situation in New Zealand where the protection of the police came at a price, and where the level of police service received by people such as my constituents in Te Tai Tokerau, who do not have a lot of money, would be different from those who do have a bit of money behind them.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000422\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EAs has already been raised today, the New Zealand Teachers Council was one organisation that did not support this proposal. It said: \u201CA vital part of the education safety path for children is the mandatory requirement in the Act that the council carry out Police vets for those applying to be registered as teachers \u2026 to assist in determining whether an applicant \u2018is of good character and fit to be a teacher\u2019 \u2026\u201D. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000423\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EAs a former principal myself we police-vetted all staff, not just teachers\u2014librarians, caretakers, office people\u2014because we wanted to make sure that everybody was fit to work with children. The Teachers Council says there should be no charge for police vetting for teachers because \u201CPolice vetting has a significant public benefit in accordance with the principles for exemption in the original consultation document; Police vetting is part of the primary functions of the police and in no way an \u2018additional service\u2019; The Council is not a profit-generating company or organisation and the cost of vets would fall directly on teachers or schools;\u201D or on the council itself. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000424\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EThere was an equation somewhere in the notes that said there are about 450,000 police vets carried out in any given year. Basically, $7.70 would be the cost per police vet. That is fine to say now that it is $7.70, but who is to say that in years to come it will not become $27.70 or $50.70 and that it will not start to cost about the same as what we hear it does over in Australia? The Teachers Council said there are \u201Cfew, if any, further efficiencies to be generated in the Police vetting system for teachers and charging will not reduce demand or costs incurred;\u201D. That is a great point\u2014just because we charge to recover costs for police vetting, it does not mean we are going to reduce the number of police vets needed. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000425\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EThe Teachers Council is opposed to any proposal that would make the council subject to cost recovery for a process that a statute requires it to undertake. So here is the statute that says it must vet all teachers\u2014it is the statute that says that\u2014and now they are saying that the council has to pay for it. Again, as has been mentioned today, where are those costs going to fall? Are they going to fall on schools? We know that schools are underfunded as they are. We know that schools struggle with money as it is, and here we are, placing another cost on them. So there are 40,000 police vets a year through the Teachers Council. That is an average of more than 3,300 per month\u2014about 13 percent of the number of vets made each year. So 13 percent of any police vetting comes through the Teachers Council and schools wanting to have staff police vetted. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000426\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EI agree with the Teachers Council that this is actually part of the core function of the police, in terms of maintaining public safety. Under section 9 of the Policing Act 2008 one of the core functions is maintaining public safety. This is actually about maintaining the safety of the most vulnerable in our society\u2014that is, our young people who are in schools. It is about crime prevention as well, because if we can stop people with dubious histories of offending against children, then we are actually preventing crime as well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000427\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EWe support this bill going to the select committee. I think there is a lot of debate that needs to be had around the bill, there are a lot of questions that need to be asked, and organisations need to submit and have their voices heard, but the Labour Party does support this bill going to the select committee. Kia ora. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022 data-id=\u0022b19f12582f4f408face5f3a543daa7fe\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000428\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b19f12582f4f408face5f3a543daa7fe\u0022\u003EKANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to the first reading of the Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill. The previous speaker, Kelvin Davis, mentioned policemen resigning. I know two policemen who resigned from the police force but who are still contributing to society, and they are part of the National Party caucus: Mike Sabin and Mark Mitchell. They are representing their constituencies very well. They are very good electorate MPs and are contributing to this Parliament. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000429\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003EThe police want to ensure that their resources are carefully prioritised to focus more on victims, preventing crime, and delivering a sustainable, efficient, and high-quality service to all New Zealanders. This bill will help the police recover some costs and prioritise that. With this, I commend this bill to the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022 data-id=\u0022dcd05553bfa24ea2bca2cfdd8f8f3dc8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000430\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022dcd05553bfa24ea2bca2cfdd8f8f3dc8\u0022\u003EDAVID CLENDON (Green):\u003C/span\u003E This Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill purports to enable cost recovery for certain police services. Most of those services, of course, are currently provided through baseline funding\u2014essentially, Vote Police each year funds the activities of the police force throughout New Zealand, with one or two well-known and historically stable exceptions such as firearms licensing and the like. The Greens absolutely believe that we need to retain that model\u2014that we fund the police adequately to do their job, which is a difficult job and a complex set of tasks. We think there is no place for user-pays in funding policing in New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000431\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EThis bill absolutely sets the police force on the road to user-pays. It establishes a model where at any point by Order in Council the Minister of Police can make regulations to extend the range of services for which a charge will be applied. Inevitably, those charges will broaden. Although they have suggested that the initial charge\u2014$7, as I think has been mentioned\u2014would be relatively low, nevertheless that will inevitably increase over time. In any case, we think that is too much to impose on organisations, particularly those that are charged with the care of children\u2014schools, early childhood centres. This sort of charge will have an impact on those organisations. Although we are told that there will be opportunities for exemptions, for those organisations to apply to be excused from the charge, that in itself imposes charges on small community-based organisations. We see no place for user-pays by stealth, because that is what we believe this bill is. It is, as in the phrase already used by my Labour colleague Kelvin Davis, thin end of the wedge stuff. It is very much the first little step on the way towards charging people for policing services, and we want no part of that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000432\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EThe point has been made that the police have suffered budget cuts, to the extent that their budgets have either been stable or slightly diminished over the years. Their costs have gone up. The police have responded very well. They have responded positively heroically to the cuts to their budgets. They have found efficiencies, they have invested in new technologies, and they have invested in new tactics and very good strategies to reduce their costs and to get maximum productivity out of their officers, out of their force, and out of their equipment. But there is a point beyond which there is nothing left to be cut. There is no fat left in the system. I believe the police are actually past that point, where they are actually suffering from the fact that they are being funded inadequately. This idea of charging for some services is not a satisfactory or an acceptable solution to that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000433\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EThe proposition in the general policy statement is interesting. Some of the sort of tortured, convoluted logic that is offered to us in the explanatory note almost reads like a Neo-liberal Economics 101 tutorial, desperately trying to justify the imposition of these charges on the basis of private good versus public good. It does not stand up to even the least scrutiny, like the idea that somehow a person must pay for a form of a licence to operate if they want to work with children, for example, by paying this fee to have them vetted by police to ensure they are right and proper people to be working in an environment where there are children. The proposition, we are told, is that that moves the cost away from general taxation to specific users or beneficiaries. I would argue that we are all beneficiaries when we ensure that our children are not exposed to people who may behave inappropriately, who may not be safe with those children. To suggest that the private good overrides the public good in that simply is not a sustainable argument. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000434\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EWe are told there will be efficiency in consumption\u2014quoting from the explanatory note: \u201Cdemand that is not strictly necessary, but which occurs due to a zero nominal price, should be eliminated.\u201D The proposition embedded in that is that people are going along to get individuals vetted just for a bit of fun, just because they can, and it does not cost anything. That is nonsense. People do not go and get police vetting of individuals lightly.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000435\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003ESitting suspended from 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000436\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002296e7c52345824f75a171e187ccd7cd5b\u0022\u003EDAVID CLENDON\u003C/span\u003E: Before the break I was making the point that this is simply user-pays by stealth. This is an attempt to introduce the mechanism that will enable charging of core public services\u2014in this case, policing\u2014in a way that starts off looking quite minimal, quite benign, but in fact, inevitably, it will increase, it will expand, and it is simply the wrong model to be funding our police force. The proposition in the explanatory note, as I was mentioning before the break, is the notion of efficiency in consumption\u2014the proposition that demand is not strictly necessary but occurs because there is no charge, effectively. It is proposing that people are getting these vettings done for reasons that are not significant or real\u2014that they are simply doing it because it is free. I simply do not accept that proposition. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000437\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003ERegarding efficiency in production, we are told that \u201C\u2026 users facing a nominal price will demand high-quality services from Police. This \u2026 will drive Police to be innovative and seek production efficiencies:\u201D. I believe that every one of our hard-working, diligent police officers, from the newest recruit up to the commissioner, should be offended by that comment. It suggests that our police will work a little bit harder, a little bit more efficiently, because they are clipping the ticket, because there is an actual fee involved. I absolutely reject that and I do believe that it is almost a slur. Police officers could quite rightly be offended by that proposition that they will work harder and smarter and more effectively because there is going to be a $7 invoice attached to their action. That is nonsense. I have great confidence in our police force. There are occasional falls from grace, and that is unfortunate, but for the most part they do their job very well and they work very hard. The idea that they will do a little bit better because they can hand somebody a $7 invoice is simply offensive. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000438\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003ESimilarly, the notion that charging for these services, which allegedly benefit individuals\u2014but, as I have already made the point, in fact there is significantly more public benefit in, for example, vetting people before they work with children than there is individual benefit. We are told, nevertheless, that this will free up resources for the delivery of front-line and preventative services. I cannot see where vetting is not a preventative service. It is in the nature of vetting that you ensure that these people who are going to work with children are appropriate people to be trusted with the care and custody of children. How is that anything but a preventative service? I think this justification we are offered has tried so hard to justify something that ought not to happen that they have had to go to these extreme lengths and offer this very convoluted logic, as I have said. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000439\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EIn May, when the press release came out from the then Minister of Police, we were told that a fee of around $5 to $7 had been proposed. Already, before it is even in place, we have gone to the top of that range\u2014$7. I think there is an indication there that charging will only increase. More significantly, we are told that this is about cost recovery. The changes, we are told, will allow the police to recover about $2.2 million a year. That is not an insignificant amount of money, but put it against the overall police budget\u2014and I am relying on my memory here\u2014I believe it is about $1.5 billion a year that we spend on policing. To suggest that this relative drop in the bucket, that this whole piece of legislation enabling charging, is about clawing back $2.2 million out of a $1.5 billion budget is, I think, nonsense. It is simply user-pays by stealth. It is just the opening up\u2014the softening up, in a sense\u2014of the New Zealand public to accept that \u201COh, yes, if you want a service from the police force, you are obliged to pay for it.\u201D That is a road that the Greens are certainly not interested in going down. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000440\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EThe point was made earlier that some organisations will be exempt from vetting charges. I guess if they plead hardship or some other concern, they will be heard and the volunteers working for them will be excused this charge. What about the transaction costs that involves? Again, what is the actual net benefit to the police out of this claimed $2.2 million? Take away the costs involved in gathering that money in the day-to-day management of transactions and that $2.2 million will disappear very quickly, or a large chunk of it will. The cost that it imposes on NGOs, which typically are supported by philanthropic funding, often by Government grants, creates this money-go-round where these organisations simply will be put at cost. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022 data-id=\u00221c26551abddc41c7ad6fc7d159546843\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000441\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221c26551abddc41c7ad6fc7d159546843\u0022\u003ERICHARD PROSSER (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E I am pleased to rise on behalf of New Zealand First and on behalf of my colleague Ron Mark to take a call on this Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill. New Zealand First will be supporting this bill going to the Law and Order Committee, but that should not be taken as an indication that our support will be continued beyond the select committee process. New Zealand First holds a number of reasonably serious concerns regarding the potential repercussions of this bill. We are keen to see these examined by the select committee and to hear public submissions because we believe that the public in general and those associated with the police in particular will share many of those same concerns. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003EThe bill\u2019s general policy statement notes that \u201Cmost services are funded out of Police\u2019s baseline funding and no fee or charge is attached to their provision.\u201D This is as we believe things should generally be in a free and fair society where the rule of law is upheld by the police force in cooperation with the people, who are taxed most handsomely in exchange for the provision of such services. The immediate issue, of course, is that as we all know the police budget\u2014their baseline funding, as the general policy statement puts it\u2014has been flat for 5 consecutive years now. In the last Budget the police suffered an actual cut in baseline funding of some $40 million. So when inflation and increased operating costs are taken into account, police have been being squeezed harder and harder over the past 5 years, and many officers, both in the ranks and up into quite senior levels of management, have commented with increasing frequency and, indeed, stridency that the thin blue line is now stretched about as thin as it can go before something breaks. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000443\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003ESo although New Zealand First welcomes the proposition that police may be enabled to access something in the way of quite desperately needed additional resourcing, the obvious question is why the Government does not simply increase the funding available to police in line with calls being made by the Police Association, community groups, NGOs, justice advocates, Opposition parties, and, indeed it would appear, everyone apart from the Government itself, rather than formulate yet another user-pays law such as this bill. Notwithstanding that vetting services are the first to be included, because they are only the first, it is our belief and concern that such a regime may have some unintended and potentially quite serious consequences as far as the policing of law and order issues in New Zealand is concerned. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000444\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003EThe general policy statement states that this amendment to the Policing Act 2008 will \u201Chelp Police achieve \u2026 efficiency in production: users facing a nominal price will demand high-quality services from Police. This transparency around costs will drive Police to be innovative and seek production efficiencies:\u201D. What does \u201Cinnovative\u201D mean in this context? Does it mean that police will be driven to seek new ways in which to enforce the law? Will they, as several previous Governments have in the past, be driven to make up the law as they go along? The general policy statement goes on to say: \u201Cresources directed to priority areas: cost recovery for services that benefit individuals frees up resources for the delivery of front-line and preventative services across the whole community.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000445\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003EThis proposition, like altogether too much of this Government\u2019s legislation through the term of the 50th Parliament, is simply back to front. Police numbers are too low as it is. We have too few front-line cops in this country. Per capita, relative to other comparable nations, New Zealand is under-policed. Back-office staff numbers have been reduced. Front-line cops are doing paperwork that should be someone else\u2019s responsibility, and here we are proposing to contract them out for paid private policing work as well. This bill will not free up resources for the delivery of front-line and preventative services across the whole community. It will stretch resources even further and make them all the more scant and all the more scarce and all the more sought after. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000446\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003EToo few police will be required to do even more under this bill. I ask whether it will lead senior police management, knowing the force is strapped for cash, to prioritise paying jobs over non-paying ones. The demand service, which this bill empowers the police to carry out and to charge for, is defined in new section 79B(2): \u201CFor the purposes of this section, demand service means a service that\u2014(a) constitutes policing; and (b) is provided only on the request of an individual or organisation; and (c) is provided to the individual or organisation requesting it for the direct benefit of a particular person or organisation (even though there may be indirect benefit to the public as a whole).\u201D To my mind, that defines an activity that may quite legitimately be regarded by police as a function that may be afforded a degree of priority, especially when operational reality being what it is means there is very genuinely needed cash flow to be had.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000447\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003ENew Zealand First has no fundamental issue with the police being allowed to recover excess or additional costs incurred through providing necessary law enforcement and public safety services required as a predictable result of social activities that have been organised by commercial interests for profit, but we do not want to see the police become a de facto private security company, offering and supplying services for money to paying customers at the expense of ordinary, necessary public safety and security police activities for the purposes of maintaining public order and the rule of law. There is a threat that this very situation may be an unintended consequence of this bill becoming law. We do not want to see that. We very much do want to see this matter thrashed out in the select committee and in the light of public submissions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000448\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003EThere are some other concerns. New Zealand First has some other concerns relating to the methods of cost recovery that the police may employ with regard to charges levied under this bill, and the matter of exemptions, waivers, and refunds. Who will be charged with administering this new user-pays service? Will the police be employing additional clerical staff in order to facilitate this new function? Will those associated costs be able to be recovered as well, or will they come from that already overstretched police budget? If a service is able to be determined as a demand service for which fees are payable, under what circumstances would it be necessary to provide exemptions, waivers, or refunds of those fees, for which the taxpayer will then presumably pick up the tab? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000449\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003EIn closing, New Zealand First believes that increasing the police baseline budget to somewhere nearer what it should be and to what is actually necessary and recruiting more front-line officers would prove a far more effective and elegant solution than this proposed new user-pays service, with all its failed neo-liberal economic connotations. New Zealand First will support this bill going to the select committee, but not necessarily beyond it at this stage. We look forward to the concerns we have raised being addressed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cc9c47c0-4409-44ca-ad2f-498707f27d69\u0022 data-id=\u00220f623f2c8c704ec4b07922db8560b6af\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000450\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cc9c47c0-4409-44ca-ad2f-498707f27d69\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220f623f2c8c704ec4b07922db8560b6af\u0022\u003EJONATHAN YOUNG (National\u2014New Plymouth):\u003C/span\u003E I am very happy to stand and speak in support of the Policing (Cost Recovery Amendment Bill), which is in the name of the Hon Michael Woodhouse. I think this is a fairly straightforward bill, so therefore I will make just a couple of very short points. There is a difference between an activity that is for public service and a commercial activity that is for private profit and, therefore, should be a private cost. For instance, an entity may own an early childhood education centre that does have a statutory requirement for police vetting of employees. Though that centre may provide a service to families in their particular area, it is also a business that is there to earn a private profit. Therefore, should not the business cost around that entity be met by the business as a cost to them and a service that is provided to them by the police be met in such a manner? So I believe that this is a very sensible bill. I think that such an example like that illustrates the rationality of it, so I am very happy to commend this bill to the House. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002269dfdffa-4227-42b6-875a-fc8033bc25cc\u0022 data-id=\u0022b54570d1bb424828818931ba011456d4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000451\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002269dfdffa-4227-42b6-875a-fc8033bc25cc\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b54570d1bb424828818931ba011456d4\u0022\u003EJAN LOGIE (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to take a short call in this, the first reading of the Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill. The Green Party opposes this bill. We have been told that the core police services are there to benefit society and therefore should be provided by baseline funding, and the example the Minister gave was front-line services. But this bill is proposing that where benefit primarily accrues to individuals or private organisations rather than society as a whole, police should be able to recover costs, yet, as has already been pointed out in the debate, this bill does not consider cost recovery in all situations that could be described in that way\u2014for example, commercial use of police, say, for large concerts or sports events, where there may, I suggest, be massive profits to be made. This bill applies primarily to police vetting. Police undertake vetting mostly in situations relating to education, community services, health services, and public services. The Teachers Council is the biggest organisation using police vetting. The regulatory impact statement has recognised that there has been increased demand on these services, and, indeed, the Minister noted that in 2013, 457,000 requests were put into the police for police vetting. That demand is still rising, yet there has been no increase in the police budget to allow them to do this work. In fact, the Government has cut the police budget by $114 million in real terms since 2009. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000452\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002269dfdffa-4227-42b6-875a-fc8033bc25cc\u0022\u003EWe have heard from the Government side of the House tonight that this is not about raising money for the police; it is just about cost recovery. Well, I think that is playing with words, really. This job was, up till this point, considered a core function of the police and a service to the public so that we could all have a feeling of safety when we accessed services where we might be vulnerable or our children might be vulnerable. In fact, the core reason that there has been increased demand for this service is the Vulnerable Children Act imposing mandatory vetting. I would like to just read out the purpose of the section that applies to the safety checks from the Vulnerable Children Act, which says: \u201CThe purpose of this Part is to reduce the risk of harm to children by requiring people employed or engaged in work that involves regular or overnight contact with children to be safety checked.\u201D How\u2014how\u2014is that more a private good than a public good? The Government, on one hand, through the most significant piece of legislation that went through Parliament last term, said that this is mandatory because this is essential to public safety. Now here we are only a few months later in this House and the Government is saying this is not a public good; this is a private benefit, and let us charge for it. It does not make sense. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000453\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002269dfdffa-4227-42b6-875a-fc8033bc25cc\u0022\u003EThe Minister has characterised the plan as charging a small fee for something that previously had been free. The Government is saying it is around $7 per check and that most organisations would be easily able to absorb that. Well, the Teachers Council does about 40,000 vets a year, so that is a cost of around $300,000 a year\u2014$300,000 a year being transferred from our schools to the police. Has the Government not heard of the old adage \u201CA stitch in time\u201D? Our children would be better off if we invested in these mechanisms to protect them before something goes wrong. Although crime is supposedly going down\u2014except for domestic violence and sexual violence, which are crimes quite relevant to this topic\u2014the Government is moving funding from community services that provide protection and from our schools into policing. It makes no sense, and the Greens are proud to oppose this bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u002231db472b90f04eee8a9c9b8cfaf17996\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000454\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002231db472b90f04eee8a9c9b8cfaf17996\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS (Labour\u2014Rimutaka):\u003C/span\u003E I felt compelled to make a brief contribution to this debate after hearing Jonathan Young\u2019s contribution. In the 30 seconds or so that he spoke, he could not have been wrong in more ways. The entire 30 seconds were just completely wrong.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000455\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220b262d9e14494930a72ed39392eb9e28\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: Concentrated.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000456\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bd1695416f01458291d509c163ccc72f\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS\u003C/span\u003E: It was concentrated wrongness. The issue that Jonathan Young spoke about was cost recovery in the case of early childhood teachers. The first thing that he was wrong about is that not all early childhood centres\u2014in fact, the minority\u2014are profit-making businesses. The vast bulk of early childhood services are community-based. They are run by kindergartens or they are run by community organisations and they do not make any money, so he was wrong in that regard. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000457\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EThe second and more important thing is that the organisations do not pay teacher registration fees; individual teachers pay the registration fees. So if the police are going to start cost recovery for police vetting for the purposes of teacher registration, that is not a transfer of cost on to an early childhood centre or even a school; it is a transfer of cost to every individual teacher in the country. Every individual teacher in the country will now have to pay more money to get police vetting in order to keep their registration up to date.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000458\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003ETeachers are not the only ones. In any profession where police vetting is required and where the employer does not pay the cost of it, this will be a transfer of cost on to ordinary, everyday New Zealanders. There are a multitude of voluntary organisations that require police vetting because there might be children or vulnerable people involved in that organisation. It is right that we ask those community organisations to have that system in place because it ensures the safety of children and young people, and that is what the police are there for. It is absolutely legitimate for us to say to the people working in those environments: \u201CYou should be police-vetted.\u201D It is for their safety as well as for the safety of the people who are in their care or in their charge. Transferring that cost in the case of voluntary organisations will probably result in some people just saying: \u201CThis is too difficult. I\u2019ve got other ways that I can spend my time.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000459\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EIn the case of teachers and the other professions where police vetting is required, it is a direct increase in costs. I have to say to the Government members that if they do not think they are going to end up paying for this one way or the other, they have got another think coming. The teachers, quite rightly, will come back to the Government in their next round of collective employment agreement negotiations and say: \u201CActually, the cost of us maintaining our teacher registration has gone up and we want the Crown to cover that by way of a salary increase.\u201D That would be a perfectly legitimate thing for them to ask for. Otherwise they are going to be going backwards. They are going to be getting less money, cash in hand, for doing the same work. It would be a pay cut. It would be perfectly legitimate for them to say: \u201CWe want the Crown to cover this.\u201D So the Crown is going to cover it, one way or the other. This is actually very short-sighted. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000460\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003ELabour is supporting the bill\u2019s referral to the Law and Order Committee because there are some instances where we think cost recovery might be justified. In the case of major events, for example, where there are significant policing implications, where there is a cost to the police for what is primarily a profit-making event or function, there might be some legitimate reasons for going to those organisers and saying: \u201CWe want you to contribute to the cost of doing that.\u201D That is legitimate. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000461\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EThe part where people have to be police-vetted for the purposes of their job or for community involvement, or whatever, is simply unfair. That is a step too far. If that is not addressed through the select committee process, I think it is very unlikely that Labour would continue to support this bill through, because it is the beginning of introducing user-pays policing. I do not see how that can possibly be justifiable or sustainable in the long term for this country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000462\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EI certainly will not be supporting right the way through the process a bill that transfers the cost of police vetting for something like teaching from the police, where it exists at the moment\u2014and therefore the Crown, by extension\u2014to the individual teachers. I think that would be manifestly unjust. I think it would inevitably result in teachers\u2014I am using teachers as an example, but there is a multitude of other professions that would be covered by this as well\u2014very legitimately seeking to come back to the Government to ask for that cost to be covered in other ways. Otherwise what the Government is doing is it is increasing the cost to hard-working New Zealanders and it is basically taking the cost away from the Government. That is not sustainable, and it is just not fair.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a6c42c44-3622-4c9c-98b8-793fb5ec15cc\u0022 data-id=\u0022ba60d77d57b34fb386358ff7530c12f9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000463\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a6c42c44-3622-4c9c-98b8-793fb5ec15cc\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ba60d77d57b34fb386358ff7530c12f9\u0022\u003EIAN McKELVIE (National\u2014Rangit\u012Bkei):\u003C/span\u003E This is an interesting opportunity to speak on the Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill, for reasons I shall go into shortly. Before doing so, I must mention the fact that before dinner we were speaking on the Organised Crime and Anti-corruption Legislation Bill, which I guess has got something to do with the police as well, but at that time, of course, the great race was on. You will be pleased to know, Mr Deputy Speaker, that a horse from our very own district ran third in that race. It was a pretty good effort by the Rangit\u012Bkei-Wanganui contingent. Anyway, that is my piece on the Melbourne Cup. It was very locally trained, in the Turakina valley.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000464\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226174410451d7410f9b98257a4f5c2131\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: Did you get a collect?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000465\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a6c42c44-3622-4c9c-98b8-793fb5ec15cc\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ede9ec94c5c5426b8e2deb912c205621\u0022\u003EIAN McKELVIE\u003C/span\u003E: No, but I did win the sweep. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000466\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a6c42c44-3622-4c9c-98b8-793fb5ec15cc\u0022\u003EI move back to the bill. I am, I guess, in the position of almost having some kind of an interest in this. I am chairman of the New Zealand Special Olympics, which will be one of the bigger users of this service in New Zealand. We, like many other voluntary organisations, vet check all of our volunteers, coaches, drivers, and everyone else\u2014a significant number of people. This proposal has been around for quite some time, and, I guess, for voluntary organisations it is going to be an interesting debate. Contrary to what the previous speaker said, we do not do what the Government tells us to do; we do what is right, and I think that most voluntary organisations do what is right in this respect. Their policies are designed to ask for these kinds of checks, whether they are police checks or whatever kinds of checks they are. Their policies are designed to ask for those types of checks. They do it for exactly the reason that Chris Hipkins mentioned\u2014that is, to protect the people who are in need of protection. In the Special Olympics\u2019 case, of course, it is our athletes who are seriously in need of protection. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000467\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a6c42c44-3622-4c9c-98b8-793fb5ec15cc\u0022\u003EThe debate for us and for this House is: what is the best way to deal with this? There is clearly a lot of commercial interest in this very same issue. There are going to be some conflicting submissions as we go through this process. There are the voluntary organisations, which make their own choice to ask for these vet checks, and then there are all those other organisations that use it commercially. So it is an interesting debate, and I think that on that point it will be interesting to see where it gets to. I certainly have no problem recommending that this bill go to the next stage in the process. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022 data-id=\u0022a95043970a1b433983f0227145668f02\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000468\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a95043970a1b433983f0227145668f02\u0022\u003EKRIS FAAFOI (Labour\u2014Mana):\u003C/span\u003E It is a pleasure to speak to the first reading of the Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill. I am drawing on a couple of documents that have been helpfully supplied to us by the police, to try to make sense of what is actually going on here. The first one is a helpful document from the police website, entitled: \u201CCost Recovery\u2014Frequently asked questions\u201D. It asks a pretty simple question in terms of this bill: \u201CWhat is cost recovery, and why is Police considering it?\u201D. The first two bullet points that it lists, in terms of its four key objectives, are: \u201CTo reduce demand for \u2018over and above\u2019 Police services \u2026\u201D, and: \u201CTo self-fund any increase in demand for any \u2018over and above\u2019 Police services;\u201D. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000469\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EI would like to concentrate on that phrase \u201Cover and above\u201D. The question that we on this side of the House have been consistently asking is: when has it become \u201Cover and above\u201D police services to check the backgrounds of people whom we are going to put in positions of trust in our communities? Many instances have been raised around teachers and also people who are working in our early childhood centres. Mr McKelvie just mentioned an organisation, the Special Olympics, which police-vets its volunteers, the people who help it with its activities. I think he mentioned drivers. There was an organisation that I met with locally this morning, a women\u2019s refuge, which I also understand would police-vet its volunteers and its staff. To think that the police vetting and the checking of the background of the people who work in these high-trust situations in our communities is \u201Cover and above\u201D what the police are expected to do is a bit of a concern in this House. This is why we do support this bill going to the select committee to get some more scrutiny as to what it considers the police consider \u201Cover and above\u201D and reasonable to charge for. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000470\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EI think Kelvin Davis and Chris Hipkins have made a good point about the Teachers Council, which is concerned about not just the number of people who will now face increased costs in order to get their police vet checks but also the fact that this may have a negative effect on checking out the backgrounds of people who work in our communities. We are concerned about that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000471\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EWe are also concerned at what might really be the motivation behind this introduction of cost recovery. Helpfully, the third bullet point in this \u201CFrequently asked questions\u201D document, supplied by the police, is: \u201CTo offset increasing financial pressures on Vote Police;\u201D. We know that over the last 4 years the Government has talked tough in terms of what it will do on law and order, but it has not necessarily backed that up with the resourcing that it has given the police. We are concerned that this may be a move that may creep out further than just simple police vetting, to try to take more pressure off what the Government has done in taking money and resources away from our police force. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000472\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EWe do realise that it is probably fair enough to debate whether we have some events or some functions of the police charged for, because some companies and some individuals are making a lot of money out of some of the activities where our police are keeping the peace, or where we know there are potentially going to be big problems\u2014whether they be things like music concerts, or the Sevens here in Wellington\u2014and where we know there is going to be a big police presence. Someone is making a hell of a lot of money out of it. There may be an argument, in those terms, that getting some cost recovery could be something that we could look into.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000473\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EBut, as I look into one of the documents on the table here, the departmental disclosure statement, I see that on page 6 or 7 there are a couple of Government departments that have been consulted, which gives me concern around the likes of some cultural events, and which I think we need to think about in terms of what added costs it may bring on to the organisers of such events. In box 3.2 it says that Te Puni K\u014Dkiri was consulted on the draft Cabinet paper and policy approvals for the bill and the draft bill was sought from it. Then, if we flick over the page, to page 8 of the departmental disclosure, in box 3.6 it also says that the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs was also consulted. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000474\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EWe will support this bill at the first reading. I think that the select committee will be a really good opportunity to have people from the community, from different ethnic communities, who may face increased charges when they are looking at holding major cultural events. I am thinking in my own patch maybe something like Creekfest, but also in Auckland where the bulk of the Pacific community is, something like the Pasifika Festival would be something where there would be quite a large police presence. It is a community event, but would that event fall into the category where in the future it may get asked for a charge to have a police presence? It is a great opportunity to showcase some of our Pasifika police officers. I know that they have used it as an opportunity to do that\u2014to put a positive message with policing. But I think that if the organisers of that event were looking at facing increased charges for having that police presence, then that would be of concern to them because it would be a sizable increased cost. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000475\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EThe other thing that I think has been raised in this House is that we do not want to get to the stage where we are opening up charging or cost recovery by the police to have them chasing events. The nightmare scenario I could think of is where we have authorised police officers doing the event control and maybe having a sprinkling of sworn officers there to supervise it, and, therefore, the police would see that as an opportunity to go out and cost recover and charge the organisers of events a fee to make sure that there is a police presence there. That would be a step too far and I think the select committee will be the opportunity for us to ask those kinds of questions and, hopefully, get some assurances from the Government that that is not\u2014we hope\u2014the road that it is intending to go down. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000476\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EI must say\u2014and it is a serious point I am trying to make\u2014when I am hearing that the likes of Te Puni K\u014Dkiri and also the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs have been consulted on that, I think that is a concern that I certainly do have in terms of those cultural events getting charged a fee for having a police presence. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000477\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EAgain, a major concern on this side of the House does come back to what is driving this. Is this another cost-cutting measure, or \u201Cpushing of costs to others\u201D measure, by the Government that is happening? We have seen, I think, around about $40 million taken out of the police budget at the last Budget\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000478\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022130229fe89194a5ca675c82cf32934a4\u0022\u003EHon Ruth Dyson\u003C/span\u003E: How much?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000479\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224dc940a8a04f4b889994910b86837b8c\u0022\u003EKRIS FAAFOI\u003C/span\u003E: $40 million. That is having, obviously, serious front-line effects at a time when, although I praise the job that the police are doing\u2014they are doing a very good job under very difficult circumstances\u2014over time, over the last 5, 5\u00BD, 6 years since this Government took over, they have been asked to do much more with much, much less. We have seen the strain that that is putting on front-line officers. I believe that resignations from the police in terms of sworn officers have gone from an average of about 14 per month to somewhere close to 50 per month in recent times. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000480\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EI think we have to start asking some serious questions about what is going on with the police and the budgets, as we are at the point now where we are getting quite a lot of resignations. There may be something else behind that, and not just simply budgetary pressures. Maybe it is that some officers who have served for a long time have been asked to move on, but I would hate that it would just be cost-cutting measures right across the board that are putting a huge strain on police resources. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000481\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003EAs we have said many times, this bill does have Labour\u2019s support to the select committee. We will be asking some serious questions around the kinds of functions that the police think are over and above. We have some concerns obviously around some of these sensitive positions in our community where there will be increased costs. We do think there is an argument for events where there could be some charging, but again that does come with some caveats. So, we will support this and look forward to seeing more out of the submissions from the select committee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022 data-id=\u0022e66e924c948b41f49ee9221491c154e5\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000482\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e66e924c948b41f49ee9221491c154e5\u0022\u003EJAMI-LEE ROSS (National\u2014Botany):\u003C/span\u003E I commend the Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022adcbf52e6cfb4e96b371145748a859a9\u0022 name=\u0022division\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EA party vote was called for on the question, That the Policing (Cost Recovery) Amendment Bill be now read a first time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 105\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 60; New Zealand Labour 32; New Zealand First 11; ACT New Zealand 1; United Future 1.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 16\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EGreen Party 14; M\u0101ori Party 2.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EBill read a first time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000483\u0022\u003EBill referred to the Law and Order Committee.\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000484\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022da318308b9eb45d7aacd369e8ca37baf\u0022\u003ETrade (Safeguard Measures) Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000485\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a3c3a52ae913448a8ac46a42a2126636\u0022\u003EThird Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000486\u0022\u003EDebate resumed from 15 April.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022 data-id=\u0022d529005bf13d4976b1444282cddcd05a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000487\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d529005bf13d4976b1444282cddcd05a\u0022\u003EFLETCHER TABUTEAU (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E I stand on behalf of New Zealand First to support this bill this evening. This bill gives a certain level of protection to our industries, to our manufacturers, and to our local producers. This bill seeks to stop dumping from international competitors and, as New Zealand First is a party that proudly stands in support of local business and our local business people, we will stand in support of this bill. However, it is very disappointing to note the length of time this bill has taken to get to this stage in the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000488\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EThis bill was originally introduced to the House in 2008 by the Hon Lianne Dalziel. It is, I hope, not a reflection of the value the Government currently places on our local businessmen and women. It was pleasing to note last week that the Government has finally levelled the playing field for our New Zealand businesses with regard to their ability to bid on international Government contracts. But this would appear to have been more about the process of the World Trade Organization rather than any proactive action on our Government\u2019s part. It would appear to be more about an international compliance rather than any true concern for the close to 440,000 small businesses in New Zealand employing well over half a million New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000489\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EHere is a bill and a piece of news that is great for our local businesses, but where is the urgency? Where is this Government\u2019s commitment to our local businesses? It would seem that it is OK to prioritise the selling-off of key assets to international interests, but ask this Government to be efficient or effective in providing a level playing field for our small businesses and this seems to be too much of an ask. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000490\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003ENew Zealand First has always been vocally adamant that the Government should do all that it can to protect our locally owned organisations. Our businesses, owned and operated by hard-working New Zealanders, are only now being afforded some level of protection with this bill and have only recently been afforded a level playing field when competing for Government contracts around the world. This has taken many, many years to achieve. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000491\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003ENew Zealand First and the public of New Zealand have seen, year after year, locally owned businesses losing out to international firms while at the same time this Government prioritises free-trade agreements that mean that New Zealand businesses have to fight off overseas firms for business in their own country. New Zealand has always had a wide open-door policy for international firms and now, hopefully, some of our own businesses can leverage on this new-found international Government market and take on some of the large players from around the world in providing to that Government sector, because you can be sure that they are given no quarter by their own Government when it comes to contracts\u2014Novopay being a perfect example of that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000492\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EBut we are concerned about the current standing of the new Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. We give the Minister his dues. He has taken the bill, a relatively good bill, introduced by a member of the then Labour Government\u2014another good idea gained from an Opposition party that this Government will seek to claim as its own, but at least the Minister has been able to recognise its merits. However, it does seem that New Zealand First will have to continue to struggle, to advocate, to push this Government to truly take small business seriously. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000493\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003ESpecifically to the bill, New Zealand First is pleased to note the inclusion of the following major points. The bill itself sets out four legislative changes to the Temporary Safeguard Authorities Act 1987, which are changes relating to the body responsible for undertaking safeguard investigations, the time frame for completing investigations, the imposition of provisional and final safeguard duty, and the introduction of guidelines to establish whether safeguard action is in the public interest. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000494\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EAs intimated earlier, this work is in accordance with the World Trade Organization rules, and meets World Trade Organization recommendations and standards. It is still commonplace around the world for large internationals, in particular, to dump goods on foreign markets. It would be interesting\u2014and I am sure the results would be disappointing\u2014to investigate the actual and real costs to local manufacturers and other small to medium sized enterprises of the sense of apathy, of the lax timetable around the implementation of this, the Trade (Safeguard Measures) Bill. This Government has had 6 years in which to bring this issue to the fore; 6 years, and this bill now finally makes it to its third reading. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000495\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EAs I was saying, it is still commonplace for large internationals to dump goods on to foreign markets. Dumping is the practice of firms selling products abroad at below cost, or significantly below prices as compared with their home market. The former implies predatory pricing, or pricing that by its nature is seeking to undermine the foreign markets into which it is entering. The latter implies that the procedure has disadvantaged the firm\u2019s home market and that they perhaps overpriced their goods for their own home consumers. Dumping in New Zealand is certainly a practice that is invasive and compromises the fair and reasonable operation of our own industries, whatever they may be. But I suggest that this affects our manufacturing industry in the main. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000496\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EThis has been true with regard to many pieces of legislation. The New Zealand economy is one of the most open markets in the world. As an economist, I commend the theory behind this open market practice. However, it is very harsh and a severe way of creating efficiencies, especially when many of our industries look to their foreign counterparts that are still being afforded some measure of protection by even our biggest competitors\u2019 Governments\u2014those that are, or would be, our trading partners and convincingly argue the need for open market regulation but fail to come through themselves. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000497\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EI suggest that the role of Government is to flatten out the peaks and troughs of this country\u2019s economic cycle. Backing our manufacturers, and saving tens of thousands of jobs, is not a nasty or inefficient Government intervention. It is good practice, which is evidenced, I am sure, by the upturn in manufacturing in response to the decline in the New Zealand dollar recently. We would have been in a much better position, as a country, as employers, and as employees, if the Government had done more to protect our manufacturing industries over the recent economic downturn. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000498\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EAs I stated earlier, New Zealand First will always stand in support of legislation that supports the businesses of New Zealand. This bill goes a small way towards doing this. I commend this bill to the House. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022 data-id=\u00223b9124f6d830425a8a6686a4e9cb6cfa\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000499\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223b9124f6d830425a8a6686a4e9cb6cfa\u0022\u003EDr SHANE RETI (National\u2014Whangarei):\u003C/span\u003E Ten\u0101 koe, Mr Deputy Speaker. I am standing in support of the Trade (Safeguards Measures) Bill, the purpose of which is twofold: to protect New Zealand businesses and to ensure our compliance with the World Trade Organization (WTO). I would like to acknowledge the many Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee members who have got the bill to this stage. I do accept that there has been some time frame. We are a look-forward Government but I take your point. There are several trade remedies that we can bring to foreign imports that may cause harm to New Zealand businesses. We have legislation already for countervailing measures and we have legislation for anti-dumping. This is another tool in the tool kit. This is a tool that talks about safeguard measures. The bill quite clearly talks about how a safeguard measure comes to be. There is a safeguard application. There is a safeguard investigation. During that investigation, in fact, you may have a provisional safeguard duty apply while it is being investigated. Then a determination is made. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000500\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003EI think there are many things to like in this bill, and I want to talk about four of them. The first is that I think this bill is business supportive. I say so for several reasons. First of all, anyone can make an application. Secondly, the criterion for determination is well spelt out. It is very clear. And, thirdly, if an eventual determination, a safeguard duty, is made and that determination is higher than the provisional duty that was allocated during the investigation, then the applicant gets a refund. If it is lower, then there is nothing more to pay, and I think that is a good indication of business support. The second point is that it is administratively real. What I mean by that is this legislation pushes out the investigation period to 75 days; it was 30 days. The purpose for that is you get a more diligent and a more thorough investigation when you give it more time. This is likely to decrease the risk that we have of facing disputes resolution at the World Trade Organization, which would likely be expensive and time-consuming. So it is administratively real. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000501\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003EI think the third thing that it does is it capacity builds the Public Service. By that, I mean the safeguard investigations will now be undertaken by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, where previously they were undertaken by the temporary safeguard authorities. While we are talking of the temporary safeguard authorities, I would like to acknowledge the two people who have worked with that, Messrs Plimmer and Gilbert. They have been the temporary safeguard authorities and they have done good work. This bill brings that capacity building, that investigation, inside the ministry, which is efficient as well, and that is what we want to do with public services. The fourth and last point I want to make is that it makes us World Trade Organization - compliant. As already mentioned by my colleague over here, it is no coincidence that last week Minister Groser progressed the accession to the World Trade Organization Agreement on Government Procurement, which gives us access to $1.7 trillion of Government contracts around the world. It is no small feat at all. I think really that this bill further supports New Zealand\u2019s compliance with World Trade Organization regulations, which in turn supports the Government\u2019s Business Growth Agenda, so I stand to support this bill. T\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Deputy Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022 data-id=\u0022a03a5161196b48dd9829004fa6c68f78\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000502\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a03a5161196b48dd9829004fa6c68f78\u0022\u003ESTUART NASH (Labour\u2014Napier):\u003C/span\u003E As mentioned, we support this bill. It is interesting, when we talk about this bill being introduced in 2008. It was an interrupted reading and the last two National MPs to speak on this were actually Tau Henare and\u2014who was that other bloke who was in trade? I cannot even remember his name. It is shocking, is it not? It was a National MP who is not here anymore. It has taken a long time for this bill to get here, but not only that, this bill actually ratifies a World Trade Organization (WTO) agreement that was established in 1994. It has taken a long time for New Zealand to recognise its WTO obligations and I actually think that both parties are probably to blame for not getting it to the third reading a lot earlier. In fact, there have been three Governments. There has been a National Government, there has been a Labour Government, and there has been another National Government since the time that this was actually ratified in Marrakesh by the WTO in 1994. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003EAs has been mentioned, this bill is about anti-dumping. It is a temporary protection that talks about temporary protection from serious injury. \u201CSerious injury\u201D is not particularly well defined, but it basically says in the bill that \u201Cserious injury\u201D is an injury that is imminent. As mentioned by the last speaker, there are 75 days for an investigation period. This may be drawn out if the chief executive, or the applicant, provides further information, but I would hope, from a business perspective and a trade perspective, that it would all be done and dusted within 75 days. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000504\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003ESome things that the chief executive must investigate when a safeguard application has been brought forward are things about whether the increased imports\u2014this is about increased imports\u2014have actually caused serious injury or a threat of serious injury. So there must be a very real threat of injury. So, for example, we cannot have just a dumping of material that does not cause serious injury, even if it is dumped but there is no injury that has been caused. It is also about whether the increased imports were due to unforeseen developments and whether the safeguard measures were necessary to prevent or remedy serious injury and to facilitate adjustment by the domestic injury of the increased imports. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000505\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003EWe are a very open economy and that has served us well over the last 20 years, but because of that it has brought risks. We have seen our local manufacturing industry become decimated over the last 6 to 9 years, and, in fact, the number of excuses that have been used are things like the high exchange rate. But every now and then we do get a dumping issue here, and I think I remember one\u2014Fisher and Paykel Appliances, actually. I think there was Haier, a Chinese company that dumped washing machines or whiteware into the country and so an anti-dumping action was brought against us. But, you know, when we talk about this, Labour has always been the party that has supported free trade. We signed the free-trade agreement with China. One of our own Prime Ministers, Mike Moore, was Director-General of the WTO. He is now our Ambassador to the United States, working very hard on the Trans-Pacific Partnership. So Labour has had a very, very active role. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000506\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003EWe had Phil Goff, who I think ended up signing more free-trade agreements than any previous trade Minister, for and against. But the thing about free trade\u2014you know, I am not skiting or anything like that\u2014is that we have basically taken a bipartisan approach. In fact, I think, if I am right, the only party in this Parliament that really has not supported free-trade agreements, certainly in my time, has been the Greens. They may have their reasons, but I think that in the 21st century, free trade is just an economic necessity. In this day and age, as countries become more and more specialised, it is not just companies but countries that are seeking global competitive advantages. But, also, with an opening economy, what we are finding is that we do need to ensure that the industries we do have in this country are protected because they are open to abuse. You know, around the world there are instances where either feast or famine in one area\u2014and I am not talking just about foodstuffs\u2014creates an opportunity for dumping. We were one of the most liberalised economies very early on and we have seen this, so we do need to protect these. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000507\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003EThe existing Act, which is the Temporary Safeguard Authorities Act 1987, was subject to review under the Labour-led Government, and that did include wide public consultation because it has pretty serious consequences. The last thing we wanted to see, and the last thing we need to see, in this country are companies and industries closing down simply because of dumped goods by a large, major global competitor from another country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000508\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003ESo we do support this bill. We think it adds just further strength to our already enviable reputation, but, as mentioned, it brings us into line with WTO regulations, which, in the end, is most important. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022 data-id=\u002240dc81fb680a4c9f9e4935f925263f33\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000509\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002240dc81fb680a4c9f9e4935f925263f33\u0022\u003EJAMES SHAW (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I rise in support of this bill. It is a trade bill that the Greens can vote for. I thought that I would just start by referencing some of the comments from Mr Stuart Nash about the Greens\u2019 position on trade. We are not opposed to all trade. Our emphasis has always been on fair trade over free trade, and a lot of people, of course, would say that free trade is fair trade. But we have to recognise that there are huge power imbalances between nations, both politically and economically, and so the idea that two parties can be in a free-trade agreement, it will be mutually beneficial, and one of those will not be harmed by that is a fallacy. We are still learning about what it takes to survive and to thrive in an increasingly globally connected and interdependent world economy. Globalisation, obviously, is not a static state, either. It is a moving feast. It is an ongoing process. As we respond to one set of developments, another set of developments is already on the horizon. Moving closer together to our trading partners has brought great benefits to New Zealand and it has also come at some cost. New Zealand is not the egalitarian nation that it once was. Our environment is no longer in the near-pristine condition that it once was in. Our economy has undergone enormous and, in some sectors, catastrophic adjustments over the last three decades. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000510\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227c215736-b512-41de-8f0c-6c5543fcfce7\u0022\u003EThe Greens are in favour of the kinds of safeguard measures that are laid out in this bill\u2014and we would suggest that these kinds of measures are late\u2014to soften the blows and to defend against dumping practices or unfair subsidies by our trading partners. It does start to even the playing field. We support the objective of ensuring that New Zealand is consistent with the World Trade Organization\u2019s rules, and the objective of reducing the risk of a successful World Trade Organization dispute settlement or a judicial review should such a safeguard measure be applied, and we support the overall aim of ensuring that New Zealand is able to use measures consistent with the World Trade Organization framework of being able to defend against the unfair practices of other nations. But, for the record, we would like to note once more that the Green Party would like to see more of an emphasis on fair trade and on green trade, as opposed to the single-minded drive for free trade, and on the inclusion of measures to safeguard the environment alongside our domestic industry. We will be voting for this bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022 data-id=\u002296bd61a9cf7a479db44806d2354fd0d4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000511\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002296bd61a9cf7a479db44806d2354fd0d4\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT (National\u2014Hamilton East):\u003C/span\u003E Well, it is good to hear from that new member that the Greens are voting for this bill. I guess that when you hear the Greens talking of fair trade and free trade, really what that member was saying is that they would prefer equal trade\u2014that is, there is no inequality in trade imbalance between countries. Well, that is just not realistic in a modern world that is based on trading. Is it OK for us to trade with countries like China, where we trade more, or is it better that we trade with countries that we trade less with? That is something that the Greens will have to come and search their consciences about.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000512\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f5c3f95c6fe14b7a94dbb2956d0c5b53\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: How does this guy get elected?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000513\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221255c05d54294d789c7778bd458c2ded\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT\u003C/span\u003E: Very easily, mate; a lot more easily than you will ever get elected by. So that is the first thing. The Labour Party talked about Labour always having supported free trade, and that is just simply not the case. Mr Nash over there said that. I would like to see the Labour Party support the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement, if that is the true intent of the Labour Party, but it simply is not. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000514\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EToday is a day when the horse that won the Melbourne Cup was named after the New Zealand First Party. Protectionist was the name of the horse that won, and we are debating a trade bill. It is important to note that this is a country that is built on trade and\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000515\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225d89ef96b6744ae09ab75d37820fbae4\u0022\u003ESue Moroney\u003C/span\u003E: It won the race, David. What do you take from that?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000516\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ad157b0825e745b7b2dbb8ea7d598f24\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT\u003C/span\u003E: Oh, not much\u2014not much at all, Sue. We are a country that is based on trade and we are a trading people. We live in the Pacific, the greatest trading region in the world, and the people who have lived in this part of the world for many, many years throughout our history have always been traders. So bills like this are important for our country going forward\u2014important so that we have the base to enable us to be that strong trading country that we need to be. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000517\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EThe bill makes five main changes, which some of our previous speakers have gone through and dictated to the House, so I will not repeat them. But I just wanted to thank those parties that are supporting it, and I wish this bill all the best through the House. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022 data-id=\u002293ba58857c2248b28d5f551595adae9a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002293ba58857c2248b28d5f551595adae9a\u0022\u003EDAVID SHEARER (Labour\u2014Mt Albert):\u003C/span\u003E That member, David Bennett, was obviously a little bit nervous, because when you look back at the people who helped shepherd this bill through the House, it started with Lianne Dalziel back in 2008. It has taken 6 long years\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000519\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221044f26e15ee40d5b326a55e54073e60\u0022\u003EHon Todd McClay\u003C/span\u003E: Who?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000520\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002228e39e0b29a040fbb9f6bb9e30b5085e\u0022\u003EDAVID SHEARER\u003C/span\u003E: Exactly\u2014exactly. Lianne Dalziel is now the Mayor of Christchurch. She has gone on to bigger and better things. Then there was Tau Henare. I do not know what happened to him.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000521\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022456ab0d7bbc34667a6c4ae6cb45632f0\u0022\u003EHon Todd McClay\u003C/span\u003E: Who?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000522\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e678481b9081442a816170d6d2cc1cb8\u0022\u003EDAVID SHEARER\u003C/span\u003E: Exactly\u2014who? I do not know what he is doing, either. John Banks\u2014remember him? He was here as well. He was involved with this bill. And then there was John Hayes, also an extinct MP, as well. So when David Bennett talks about the time it has taken to get this bill through the House, he must be sitting there kind of worried that he is going to be the next on the list of the Trade (Safeguard Measures) Bill speakers to hit the dust, down there in the Waikato.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000523\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EWe have waited 6 long years for this bill to come through. This bill was put forward by the Labour Government back in 2008, and it has taken this long to be pushed through by this Government, even though it is a pretty simple piece of legislation and it is agreed upon by just about everybody in this House. It promotes fairness, and we are all into fairness\u2014well, this side of the House is into fairness; the other side I certainly cannot speak for\u2014and it does bring us, as some speakers have said, into line with the World Trade Organization. It means that after nearly 20 years we are fulfilling our obligations there, and, of course, it removes some of the problems with the temporary safeguard authority that has been set up\u2014a big piece of bureaucracy within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, which has had to deal with that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000524\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EReally, what this bill deals with is the possibility that there could be serious injury caused to some of our businesses by unscrupulous countries dumping their produce in New Zealand, and obviously we do not want to see that. We have entered into a number of free-trade agreements with a number of countries, and although we put down as part of those agreements that we should not have dumping, unfortunately that is a risk. This bill will protect our companies that might be vulnerable to that dumping.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000525\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EWe are, as many speakers have pointed out this evening, a free-trade country. If we do not trade, we will certainly die as a country. We have done very well in terms of the free-trade agreements we have been able to sign. The unfortunate way that the World Trade Organization and the free-trade agreements have gone on a global basis has not transpired here, and what we have instead is a number of regional and bilateral free-trade agreements.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000526\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EFor New Zealand the most important of those to date is the one with China\u2014China\u2019s only free-trade agreement and the first free-trade agreement that was signed with that country. In the time since we signed that, in 2008 until today, our exports have increased from about $3 billion to nearly $10 billion, and $3 billion of that $10 billion is actually not in the agricultural sector; it is actually in many of the higher-value commodities that we have been able to trade with China.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000527\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EIt is important to take some lessons from what happened when we went into that China free-trade agreement negotiation. First of all, there was not unanimous agreement across Parliament that we should have an agreement with China. Certainly, the Green Party and the New Zealand First Party did not agree with that. But what we also did\u2014and I want to raise this point because it is something that this Government has blatantly not been able to do\u2014was engage with many of the stakeholders around the country. We had discussions with Greenpeace, with Business New Zealand, with the Council of Trade Unions. That was part of what we did in order to give people some comfort that what we were doing was in the best interests of the country.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000528\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EBut this Government has blatantly been unable to do that with the Trans-Pacific Partnership. So what we have is a level of fear and uncertainty about the unknown around the free-trade agreements that might be signed off. We simply do not know what the Government\u2019s bottom line really is. We have got worries about Pharmac. We have got worries about whether we will sign away our environmental issues, our public health issues. All of those questions have not been answered satisfactorily for the public of New Zealand. We understand what the benefits will be, and they could be considerable. But we do not know what we are giving up as a result.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000529\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EI just want to make the point that exports are extraordinarily important to us, and today in question time it was absolutely and categorically shown that exports as a percentage of GDP have actually gone down under this Government. There is a goal that has been set by this Government\u2014it is laughable when you think about what is actually happening at the moment\u2014of 40 percent; that exports as a percentage of GDP will be 40 percent. In 2009 they were 32 percent. Today they are just a little over 29 percent.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000530\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EThere is a little bit of a disagreement here amongst some of the Government Ministers. Steven Joyce came out and said just a couple of weeks ago that that percentage was actually around 30 percent. Well, it is a little bit under 30 percent, but, of course, Steven Joyce likes to round it up, as he does. But Bill English today was talking about it being 33 percent, which is quite blatantly incorrect and clearly out of step with his counterpart Mr Joyce.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000531\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003ESo what do we see? What we are seeing at the moment is exports as a percentage of GDP going down, and Mr English talking not about value, which we all want to see\u2014we want to see the value of these exports going up\u2014but quantity. For heaven\u2019s sake! Have we not left this behind? Quantity was what we did in the 1960s. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000532\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EWe want to be looking at value added, and value, when we look at these exports, because value is what creates the jobs, helps those businesses profit, and enriches New Zealand. That is what we want to see, not some waffle about quantity and not value, or whatever the excuse was that Mr English decided to dream up when he was answering questions today. He probably needs to have a bit of a conversation with Steven Joyce so that they can at least get their numbers correct. It is embarrassing sitting on this side of the House and knowing that they are both talking about completely different things.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000533\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EWe are an exporting country. We need to export. We need to make sure that those exports are able to get out there and into those markets, but we want to see clarity around what we are getting into in the form of the Trans-Pacific Partnership. We want to see a Government that really is committed to exports and not trying to fudge it and talk about the construction industry, as Mr English did in question time today, which depends so heavily on an earthquake. That is some great planning by the National Government, where economic development is based on an earthquake!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000534\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003EWhat we want to see is value-added exports being shipped out of New Zealand, which can create jobs, profit our businesses, give people higher incomes, and drive up the value of our education system. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000535\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dfa851f0-ef7b-4834-bc41-1b3b645a3495\u0022\u003ESo in the spirit of that, and giving our businesses and our industries a fair go, we support this bill, as we supported it in 2008\u2014through every permutation and the comings and goings of party members as they came and went, especially in the National Party, the ACT Party, and wherever, as they trundled through as this legislation passed through history. It is great to be sitting here and saying: \u201CThank God we have actually been able to put a line under this, rule it off, and put it into law before Christmas, 6 years after the date it was first introduced.\u201D Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022 data-id=\u0022ab59535efb344fdc92e20d9afa197915\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000536\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ab59535efb344fdc92e20d9afa197915\u0022\u003EJAMI-LEE ROSS (National\u2014Botany):\u003C/span\u003E I commend the bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000537\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EBill read a third time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000538\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00227240849eeee24c67a4638b26f0f4c772\u0022\u003ESocial Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000539\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00223167fb530c754e9fb9166ee66340e59c\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022 data-id=\u0022e094c0bc85284176a741a0249c98ce6b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000540\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e094c0bc85284176a741a0249c98ce6b\u0022\u003EHon ANNE TOLLEY (Minister for Social Development):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill be now read a first time. I nominate the Social Services Committee to consider the bill. This bill seeks to provide greater pension flexibility for people who wish to retire in the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau. This Government wants to ensure that New Zealanders have as many options as possible as to where they spend their retirement, and we also want to make sure that those countries and territories that have close constitutional ties with New Zealand are recognised, and that their ongoing economic and social viability is supported.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000541\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003ECurrent pension portability arrangements allow people to take their New Zealand superannuation to one of 22 Pacific countries and territories, including the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau. The arrangement also applies to the veterans pension, which is an alternative to New Zealand superannuation for eligible veterans. The provision that makes this possible is called the Special Portability Arrangement. Under the arrangement, New Zealand superannuation is paid at a minimum of 50 percent after 10 years\u2019 residence in New Zealand, rising to 100 percent after 20 years\u2019 residence. There are also general portability provisions that cover all other countries with which New Zealand does not have a social security agreement. The payment formula for the Special Portability Arrangement is more generous than the payment formula for the general portability provisions. This is because the Special Portability Arrangement is designed to recognise the contribution Pacific peoples make to New Zealand, and the inability of Pacific countries and territories to fulfil the reciprocal obligations necessary to conclude social security arrangements with New Zealand. There are currently nearly 650 people receiving their New Zealand superannuation in the Pacific, and nearly 300 of those people live in the Cook Islands.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000542\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003ETo be eligible under the Special Portability Arrangement at the present time, a person must be resident and present in New Zealand on the date of his or her application. Consequently, people who wish to retire and receive New Zealand superannuation in the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau are not able to leave New Zealand until they are 65, which is the age of eligibility for New Zealand superannuation. Should they choose to return permanently to the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau prior to age 65, they lose their ability to apply for New Zealand superannuation. This bill will remedy that situation by eliminating the resident and present in New Zealand requirement for the Special Portability Arrangement in respect of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau. The bill will allow persons to retire to those islands after reaching the age of 55, and to apply for New Zealand superannuation or the veterans pension from these Pacific islands at age 65.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000543\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EWhy are they able to retire to only the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau after reaching the age of 55? This is because there is a residence requirement for New Zealand superannuation and the veterans pension that will still apply to these people. In order to be eligible for New Zealand superannuation or the veterans pension, a person must have lived in New Zealand for 10 years since the age of 20, 5 of which must be after the age of 50. This provision applies to all applicants for New Zealand superannuation, and, therefore, it would not be right to remove it only for people who wish to move to the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau. The change is restricted to those three countries because this bill is about recognising New Zealand\u2019s close constitutional relationships with these Pacific islands, which enjoy shared citizenship with New Zealand, and unique legal arrangements. Both the Cook Islands and Niue have adopted constitutions enabling self-government, in free association with New Zealand. Free association is a status distinct from that of full independence, in that it allows the Cook Islands and Niue to maintain New Zealand citizenship while administering their own affairs. Tokelau is a non-selfgoverning territory of New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EAs I said earlier, this bill is also about trying to assist the economic and social viability of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau. Depopulation, and its related social and economic consequences, is a longstanding issue for these island countries. The current resident and present requirement has been described as a disincentive for Cook Islanders, Niueans, and Tokelauans established in New Zealand to return home before retirement age. Removing this disincentive has the potential to boost economic development and human resource capacity in these islands, through an increased return of experienced persons able to apply skills effectively in their home communities. People returning at age 55 would have the capacity to contribute to the workforce 10 years in advance of the standard retirement age. As pension payments are paid in gross, it is expected that local income tax and value-added tax will be paid by returning migrants to contribute to services received.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000545\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EThe idea that otherwise eligible persons should be able to apply for their New Zealand superannuation or the veterans pension from the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau has been around for some time. Pacific Island leaders view greater flexibility around pension portability as a driver for increased economic activity, and have sought changes to the New Zealand scheme for many years. The issue continues to be raised, in particular by the Cook Islands, at senior Government levels.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000546\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EThe issue of pension portability was also highlighted in the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee inquiry into New Zealand\u2019s relationships with South Pacific countries, which was presented to the House in December 2010. The committee noted the potential impact of experienced people with some capital on consumption, business development, and job creation in an island economy. The committee suggested that citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau, as New Zealand citizens, should be eligible for a New Zealand pension in the same way as New Zealanders living in the Chatham Islands.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000547\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003ENiue and Tokelau are facing particular depopulation problems and very limited options for development of a private sector economy. The committee favoured options involving the promotion of Niue as an attractive location for retirees, noting that they would bring steady cash flow, and contribute to stable employment options. Most important, they could contribute to the viability of businesses providing goods and services to residents and visitors. It is important to note that this change will not be restricted just to citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau. All New Zealanders who qualify for New Zealand superannuation will be able to make use of the provision, should they choose to live in those islands.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000548\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EThe economic implications of the bill for New Zealand are mixed. On the one hand there are fiscal costs to the Crown associated with payments to newly eligible superannuitants who have moved permanently from New Zealand before turning 65. In addition, in the future those people who choose to leave New Zealand at age 55 will create a likely loss of economic input to New Zealand due to that earlier emigration. There will also be ongoing administration costs. On the other hand a range of indirect economic benefits and savings may be derived by New Zealand from the proposal. The potential benefits include increased economic activity in the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau, leading to a reduction in remittance payments and private transfers from New Zealand. Savings could also be accrued as a result of a lower burden on some New Zealand Government - funded services, including reduced expenditure on health care. These benefits are difficult to quantify, however, and would depend on the response to the new arrangements. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000549\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EOfficials have tried to estimate how many people might benefit from the new arrangements. Immigration data suggests that 245 people who emigrated from New Zealand to the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau after the age of 55 would become newly eligible for New Zealand superannuation when the legislation is passed. The estimates also show that this is likely to increase by an additional 16 people in each subsequent year. This sounds like a relatively small number, but taken in the context of small populations, the implications of this are quite significant. I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022 data-id=\u00229939b0514aa044339e9f450053284ee2\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000550\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229939b0514aa044339e9f450053284ee2\u0022\u003ESUE MORONEY (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E It is my pleasure to rise to speak on behalf of the Labour Party on the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill, which we will be supporting at first reading and to the select committee. Before I address the content of this bill, I would like to take the opportunity to dedicate my first reading speech to some recently departed leaders of high standing from the Hamilton community, in both the Cook Islands and the Niuean communities. George Ford and Terry Chapman\u2014both taonga and leaders in the Hamilton community for their respective Cook Islands and Niuean communities\u2014actually, interestingly, died within a few days of each other about a year ago. It was a time of great loss and great grief for not only their communities in Hamilton but for the broader community in Hamilton because of the leadership roles that those two men had displayed in terms of the integration of their communities with the broader Hamilton community and in ensuring that people who were coming to Hamilton from the Cook Islands and Niue had a community to settle into and were well looked after. That benefited the rest of the community. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000551\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003EI raise this because it is interesting that when you know people in your community, sometimes you do not always know what a contribution they have made. It was not until I attended Terry Chapman\u2019s funeral that I learnt and understood the amazing contribution he had made to Niue. He had been the primary public servant involved in drafting the Niuean constitution. He had come to live and work in New Zealand after making that incredible commitment to, and having that impact on, his own country. It was not until I was at his funeral and saw that the Premier of Niue had travelled to Hamilton to farewell Terry Chapman that I truly understood what this man\u2019s contribution had been. Of course, that contribution, because of the connection between Niue and New Zealand, as the Minister has just said, is considerable for our own community because of the way in which that constitution was brought about. I do want to dedicate my first reading speech to those two very fine gentlemen who have made such a contribution to their own nations but also to the nation-building in New Zealand and to our Hamilton community in particular. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000552\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003EThis bill is supported by the Labour Party because it actually helps people. As people know about the Labour Party, our view is that people matter most. This bill gives effect to the portability of the New Zealand superannuation and the veterans pension to people who may wish to retire in the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau, and it seems like a very correct and fitting thing to do. What a nice place to retire in\u2014any of those places. Would that not be fabulous? If, in our older age, we were, perhaps, fit enough and we did not feel that we needed to be near a tertiary hospital or major health care services, any of those places would be a fabulous place to retire in, and this bill allows people to have that option. So it allows that portability. The aim of it is to allow eligible people who live in the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau to be able to apply from any of those countries for New Zealand superannuation or a veterans pension, and to be paid those benefits in any of those countries or in other specified Pacific countries. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000553\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003EThis policy from the Government was announced on 9 August 2013 by the Hon Murray McCully, and it has taken some time to get to a first reading, but I am pleased that it has made it on to the Order Paper at this point in time. So, under the current rules, I think as the Minister outlined, people wishing to retire to the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau have to be resident and president\u2014that is, present in New Zealand at age 65.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000554\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220a229a3d81ae489095597f87fd476c9d\u0022\u003EPoto Williams\u003C/span\u003E: President would be fine.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000555\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229739a5267c0f4e7d941f07a3a850fee5\u0022\u003ESUE MORONEY\u003C/span\u003E: Well, they could be the president as well. But, no, they are not required to be the president; they are only required to be present, so it is not so cumbersome. As we know, these are our Pacific neighbours. The people who are most likely to be using this probably are not people like me who think it would be a wonderful dream to retire in such a location. It is very likely to be people who are returning home\u2014people who have come to our country, come to New Zealand, to contribute to our society, to further their own education, perhaps, or to further the opportunities afforded to their own families. They have worked. They have made a huge commitment, like the sort of contribution I outlined just before from the two gentlemen I spoke of, Terry Chapman and George Ford. They brought a huge commitment and skills to our country. Then, after having earned money here and earned the right to be paid New Zealand superannuation, they have earned the right to be able to retire in their homeland. I think that it is right and proper that we afford them the ability to do so. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000556\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003EResidents of those countries or that territory\u2014as the Minister outlined before, Tokelau is regarded as a territory\u2014would still need to qualify for New Zealand superannuation in the first instance. So they must have been resident and present in New Zealand for more than 10 years since the age of 20, including 5 years since the age of 50, for this new provision to apply to them. This means that people who are entitled to New Zealand superannuation, regardless of whether they are of Cook Islands, Niuean, or Tokelauan ethnicity, will be able to depart New Zealand to live in one of these three countries after the age of 55 and apply without returning to New Zealand for their superannuation once they turn 65. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000557\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003EOne thing that I do notice\u2014and I suppose it is more noticeable now because we have this tool that we use called Facebook, where we can see what people are up to\u2014is that people from the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau in the Hamilton area are actually going back and rediscovering their roots. Some of these families\u2014I guess it is the children of the people who first travelled here\u2014are going back and reconnecting with their parents\u2019 and sometimes their grandparents\u2019 villages and discovering those roots for the first time. I guess I have had a little bit of experience in this myself, but what I notice when people go back and discover their roots is how much confidence it gives them in who they are and where they have come from. You absolutely notice that when people return, they have got that new-found sense of confidence. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000558\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003EI had a little bit of an experience like that myself. When I did my overseas experience\u2014I think I was at the tender age of 18 or 19 at the time\u2014I went to this foreign land called Ireland. It was a place I had never been to before and a place I did not know a lot about, but I have Irish ancestry on both sides of my family. That probably explains a little bit to my colleagues about me. I have Irish ancestry on both sides, so there is no escaping it. What I really was not prepared for was landing in this foreign land I had never been to before and feeling completely and utterly at home from day one. I imagine that that is something of the experience that people who are going back and discovering their roots in these three localities have as well\u2014that, somehow, through DNA, I think it actually is transmitted that this is home; this is where you belong. So the calling will be strong for people from those three locations to retire there. This bill allows them to do that without losing the financial support that they have earned and gained from their time in New Zealand. It is a bill that is worthy of our support. I am very proud to have stood and supported this bill on behalf of the Labour Party, and particularly in memory of those two fine men\u2014George Ford and Terry Chapman. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022 data-id=\u0022fa00523fd8114f0b8cba0b04b1dd3a6a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000559\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022fa00523fd8114f0b8cba0b04b1dd3a6a\u0022\u003EALFRED NGARO (National):\u003C/span\u003E Back in the year of 1952, my father came over here from the beautiful Cook Islands. He came from Aitutaki. His older brothers were already residing here; they were down in Tokoroa, in the Waikato. He went down to places such as Mangakino and worked in the forestry industry down there. He stayed there for about 3 years, and then made his way back up to Auckland, where he resided in Ponsonby.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000560\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EMy mother came to New Zealand in the year of 1953. She began to work as a cleaner. My parents met at the Orange Hall, which was one of the dancehalls that was open back in those days\u2014and there were other places, such as the Rising Sun and the Reefcomber, which they used to visit. They then fell in love, and I was the result\u2014the second of their five children who were born here. I remember growing up in Ponsonby, initially, and then heading out to west Auckland. The aspirations and dreams behind their emigrating from the Cook Islands to New Zealand were for the hope of a better future and a better life, and, more particularly, for their children\u2014so that they would do well both in education and employment opportunities, and also that they would be the beginning of another generation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000561\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EI am proud to be able to speak on the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill. It is an important bill that acknowledges the journey and the stories of people, such as my parents and other parents from the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau, who came here for a better life, but who, at the same time, wish to return in their older age\u2014as Sue Moroney said, to go back not only to rediscover but to spend their final years resting back in their homeland. I must say, Sue Moroney, that the best place you could reside is probably the Cook Islands. I am not being biased here. I know there is a representative here from Samoa, and one from Tonga. My wife is Samoan and Niuean as well. But the Cook Islands were voted the eighth best place in the world to have a holiday. It is a beautiful place. Besides being a beautiful place, it is a place that has history and heritage. That absolutely is important, and we see that as being important for people such as my parents when it is time to return.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000562\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EThis bill has come out of a long period of inquiry into the importance of New Zealand\u2019s relationship with these protectorate nations, and into how we can give something back to them. I think it is also important to acknowledge the fact that there has been a huge contribution by these communities to both the citizenship and the establishment of nationhood in New Zealand. Poto Williams and I have been working with the Cook Islands community as we enter the centenary commemorations for World War I. We know that during World War I Sir M\u0101ui P\u014Dmare went out into the Pacific, and, because of the protectorate relationship with New Zealand, conscripted 500 soldiers into the Rarotongan battalion\u2014which came across in three contingents\u2014as well as 147 from Niue. They fought in World War I. Their contribution is significant and as important. So the payment formula for the Special Portability Arrangement is more generous than the general portability provisions, recognising the contribution our Pacific people have made to New Zealand, and the inability of Pacific countries and territories to fulfil the reciprocal obligations necessary for social security agreements.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000563\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EI think it is important too to acknowledge the fact that in the regulatory impact report it talks about the aspect of depopulation. As a result of depopulation, we see youth, we see skill, and we see experience moving out of the islands. This legislation provides a great opportunity, because at the age of 55 you are still able to make a contribution to the Pacific Islands, and these islands need this. We know there are only an estimated 245 people\u2014increasing by 16 per year\u2014who will be impacted by this, so it is not a lot, but for those small Pacific nations it is quite significant, as is their contribution.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000564\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EI think this bill will be important to those island nations. I was over at the South Pacific leaders forum, where this conversation was had with the Premier of Niue, Mr Toke Talagi. He talked about the importance of this reciprocal arrangement with the portability of the pension. The Cook Islands Prime Minister, Henry Puna, also acknowledged this as well. So I think this is good for our relationships with the Pacific. I think it acknowledges their contribution as well. I think these things are important. I also just want to acknowledge my colleague in the House, the Hon Todd McClay, who was the ambassador for the Cook Islands and Niue from 2000 to 2007, and served them in a way that really made a difference. So I think that is absolutely important. We have a strong relationship, a long-lasting relationship. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000565\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EI think this bill will be a good bill. I look forward to chairing this in the Social Services Committee. It could be the beginning. I know there will be some conversations in terms of how we broaden that aspect of the relationship. There are other Pacific nations that made a contribution. I think this is a start. We need to start here. We need to acknowledge that contribution. In the future there could be the possibility that it could be extended. We look forward to that ongoing conversation. I look forward to seeing this bill in the select committee, to hearing submissions, and to returning it back to the House. I commend this bill to the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022 data-id=\u002260ff87d617284cd4a207dc81a2818899\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000566\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002260ff87d617284cd4a207dc81a2818899\u0022\u003ESu\u2019a WILLIAM SIO (Labour\u2014M\u0101ngere):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to support the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill, and to congratulate the Government on this particular bill. I recognise that this is something that the Pacific communities have asked for. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000567\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003EI recall that in the 1970s Albert Wendt wrote a book called Sons for the Return Home. That book captures the essence of the dreams and aspirations of our Pacific communities in that day and age. When the wave of Pacific people first landed on the shores of Aotearoa, there were jobs. In fact, my uncles used to joke about how they could quit one job in the morning and find another job in the afternoon. Unions were strong. They were well paid. They had State housing, and after a year or so in State housing, they were able to save some money of their own to buy their own house. At the time, there was a child benefit on which you could capitalise and which you could use as a deposit. In fact, the loan was guaranteed by the State at that time\u2014a 3 percent loan for 30 years. That was how my parents got to own their own house. With dad working, mum stayed at home and looked after the kids. When we came home, there was a cooked meal prepared. Those were the days when that was available. There was full employment even\u2014I think one Prime Minister said during that period that he could count the number of people who were without jobs. How times have changed\u2014how times have changed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000568\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003EAlthough I welcome the Government\u2019s move in terms of this bill, I think our communities are not going to easily forget the things that have happened in the last 6 years. I will say a little bit more about that later on. But this bill is welcome. It is something the communities of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau have asked for. It is also something that other Pacific peoples are agitating for, and more recently so. There is a phrase in Samoan that I would use: O Tangata ua galo. It means: \u201CThese are the people who have been forgotten.\u201D The reason for this is that we call the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau realm countries. They are New Zealand citizens. For some reason or other, we tend to forget that quite easily. So I welcome this move. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000569\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003EI often ask myself why it is that a person living in the Cook Islands, Tokelau, or Niue has to come here to New Zealand to apply for the pension. When you think that the people of these countries, in addition to the many other Pacific people who came to this country and worked during the manufacturing boom, are also those who came and served in the initial New Zealand Expeditionary Force that went to Europe and fought in the wars on behalf of this country and on behalf of England. In fact, it was M\u0101ui P\u014Dmare, who travelled to Niue and the Cook Islands explicitly to try to recruit people to fill the M\u0101ori Battalion numbers that were asked of M\u0101ori at that particular time. Since M\u0101ori themselves were still up against the wall in terms of how the Government of the day was treating them at that time, M\u0101ui P\u014Dmare decided to travel directly to the Cook Islands and Niue.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000570\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003EMany of these people who fought on behalf of New Zealand died and are still buried overseas. There are other markers here in Aotearoa New Zealand of where some of these people are buried. The point I am making is that this move towards allowing people to leave New Zealand at the age of 55, to go back and reside in the islands and to then be eligible for the pension at 65, is a good move. It will be widely received by the Pasifika communities. But I think that as part of the work that the Social Services Committee needs to do, it needs to be asking whether these are still the forgotten people. Are there other things that Aotearoa New Zealand needs to do in terms of ensuring there is consistency? After all, these are people of the Realm of New Zealand. They are New Zealand citizens. They are not foreigners. Why do we then continue to treat them as if they are on foreign soil, when they are, indeed, part of the Realm of New Zealand?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000571\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003EIn fact, Sir Anand Satyanand made a point at every speech he made of always greeting and acknowledging the languages of the Realm of New Zealand, which are M\u0101ori, English, Cook Island, Niuean, Tokelauan\u2014and, I might add, that because Samoan is the second-most spoken language, it could also be argued that Samoan and Tongan are languages of the Realm of New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000572\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022acec0bac2b794f8f9329ef8528193ab7\u0022\u003ECarmel Sepuloni\u003C/span\u003E: And sign language.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000573\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002205063cf6291349eca5efce18ad09f46c\u0022\u003ESu\u2019a WILLIAM SIO\u003C/span\u003E: And sign language\u2014that is right. Sir Anand never failed to use his sign language. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000574\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003EThe select committee will probably need to ask about these issues and make sure that there is wide publication of the opportunity to make submissions on this. I suspect that when the public makes submissions, they will go beyond what this bill may entail. I would hope that the select committee does not just throw away the input from the wider community, but that it puts it aside and perhaps makes further inquiries as to the further work this Parliament must do in order to address those issues I would regard as O Tangata ua galo\u2014the people whom New Zealand has forgotten. These are the people of the Realm of Aotearoa New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000575\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003EIt says in the papers that are available that they are still required to meet the criterion that is currently in place\u2014the criterion being that they must be resident in New Zealand for 10 years after the age of 20, and 5 of those years must be after the age of 50. Yet the point I was making earlier is that if they are resident in the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau, is that not still part of the Realm of New Zealand? Are they still required to be resident here for the sake of meeting the old criterion, which does not change at all? What about those who are serving in the public sector in these realm countries? Are they not also entitled to the same treatment that public servants receive here in Aotearoa New Zealand, given that they are part of the realm? I would hope that the select committee continues to look at those particular areas. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000576\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003EI note that it is not the first time that this has been asked. In a recent meeting during the campaign both the Prime Minister of the Cook Islands and the Premier of Niue made the point\u2014and I think they were feeling a little bit frustrated because I suspect there may have been promises made, but I am glad that if this is what they were looking for, then certainly they should be proud of the way that this Government is moving. But as I said earlier, in my opening statements, the fact that this is being done, the fact that I suspect the Pacific community would welcome this, does not release this Government from the poor standard of response that it has given the Pacific community of late, because in the last 6 years unemployment has continued to rise, and unemployment is at 11.4 percent. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000577\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003EIn the last 6 years the income for Pacific people has been declining. The median income for Pacific people has been declining, and for Auckland I can say it was $455 per week at the end of 2008; at the beginning of this year it was $379. Child poverty is a significant issue that hovers over our community, not just the Pasifika community but communities right throughout Auckland. I would say that, currently, the single biggest issue that will have a rippling effect on the future of this country is the fact that we have unaffordable housing\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000578\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022af0860d98f194d7c9af28c2458b082b2\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Order! That is not part of the bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000579\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b398827c-6bf5-403e-90dc-ff03205302a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220ab7e3d550ca441ba8ae24645ebd41c5\u0022\u003ESu\u2019a WILLIAM SIO\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014with people in situations of homelessness. The point I am making is that times have changed. When I told you about Sons for the Return Home\u2014the book that Albert Wendt wrote\u2014those times have changed. Today it seems as if one cannot help but wonder whether this Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill has been timed strategically to counter some of the negative impact of this Government\u2019s policy on the Pasifika community today, not just what I have outlined but also the outsourcing of Pasifika programmes from Television New Zealand. That too is a strong signal that this Government does not care about Pacific people, so despite what it does with this bill\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u00223da6110d025349c3ab4077c285e2ffeb\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000580\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223da6110d025349c3ab4077c285e2ffeb\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: The member\u2019s time has expired.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225634618f-04f4-4f2c-a4bb-6ec0edeb2bf5\u0022 data-id=\u00228d5c552bc59e4c899359efc21a16e2b6\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000581\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225634618f-04f4-4f2c-a4bb-6ec0edeb2bf5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00228d5c552bc59e4c899359efc21a16e2b6\u0022\u003EJONO NAYLOR (National):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to support this bill and want to say a couple of things about it. Firstly, can I just address a couple of things that were raised by the previous speaker, Su\u2019a William Sio, who talked about sort of broadening out the eligibility to all sorts of things for people who are residing in those particular islands that we are talking about tonight. I am just a little concerned that if we look to impose New Zealand laws right across those places, that I would actually have to start wearing a helmet or something when I am riding around on the Rarotongan island. I quite like the fact that you do not have to, so I would hate to see that we actually imposed all of the New Zealand laws that go along with the rights that go with those sorts of responsibilities as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000582\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225634618f-04f4-4f2c-a4bb-6ec0edeb2bf5\u0022\u003EI think it is critically important that we do continue to support these particular islands. They have a special constitutional arrangement with New Zealand and I think it is appropriate that we do bring in this regime. I have not been to Tokelau or to Niue but I am aware of the depopulation issues that they are suffering, and if there are some things that we can do to help support these nations then we must continue to do this. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000583\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225634618f-04f4-4f2c-a4bb-6ec0edeb2bf5\u0022\u003EI think it is great that people who are wanting to go back there to retire, if they are wanting to go back home to the islands to be able to participate in society back home, they will not have to wait until they are 65 any more. They will be able to go back a little earlier so that they can actually go back and make some useful contribution, which I am sure will be gratefully received back in those islands. I think it is a great move that we are moving forward on this. I am glad to see it happening and happy to give it my support.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022 data-id=\u00225684058a98694fa4a6af55951fe2ed93\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000584\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225684058a98694fa4a6af55951fe2ed93\u0022\u003EDENISE ROCHE (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to take a call for the Greens on this bill. We will be supporting this bill because we see it as quite a sensible and positive step forward for the people of Niue, Tokelau, and the Cook Islands. It is really one of those bills where it is all in the title, basically. It is about the portability of social assistance for the people of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003ESome people who have contributed to New Zealand\u2019s economy throughout their adult lives are originally from these islands. These islands are nations of the Realm of New Zealand, which means that these people who have been working in our country, in New Zealand, are our citizens\u2014they are New Zealand citizens as well. So what happens now is that they cannot return to their home countries and access a New Zealand superannuation benefit unless they are 65 and are already receiving it. They cannot do that. But the changes in this bill are very positive, although it does not go as far as some people would want\u2014in fact, there are some problems around that. The changes are that a person who has worked in New Zealand from one of those nations who has worked here after the age of 20 for 10 years\u2014and 5 of those years have been after the age of 5\u2014will be able to access the New Zealand superannuation from their home country if that is what they want to do. It means that they can basically move back to their home country as long as they have been \u201Cresident and present\u201D, which are the exact words that are in the legislation, for the requirements as I have outlined\u201410 years after the age of 20 and at least 5 of those years after the age of 50. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000586\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EMy understanding is that this is not going to impact on a lot of people. In the regulatory impact statement\u2014and the Minister for Social Development in her introduction referred to it as well\u2014it suggests that there are around 245 over-55-year-olds who when this bill is passed would be eligible to access New Zealand superannuation from Niue, Tokelau, or the Cook Islands, and that only a further 16 or so per year subsequently from that would actually be able to do the same. But it does mean that these citizens\u2014citizens of New Zealand, citizens of these island nations as well\u2014will be able to go back to their home countries earlier than what they have done previously. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000587\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EIt has been suggested that this bill might go some way towards addressing some of the concerns that those small island nations have had around a shrinking population. That is particularly of concern for Niue and the Cook Islands. In the existing situation there has been a disincentive for older citizens from there to go home after they have worked all their lives here, for example. It has been difficult for them to return home at a younger age. This bill will actually be more beneficial to them because they will be able to go home earlier. Let us face it: why would you not want to retire to a lovely, beautiful Pacific island? It is one of the problems we have on Waiheke, actually. It explains why we have a high number of retirees where I live as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000588\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EIt also makes sense to me that as you get older there is more of a compelling desire to return to your home nations, to go and spend that time, your last years, with the people whom you have grown up with. That was certainly the reasoning that I heard from a man whom I know who lives on Waiheke. He is in his early 60s, so he has not been eligible. He is from the Cook Islands originally, and he moved to New Zealand as a young man and raised his family here. He has had a hard life of hard physical labour. He described to me his yearning, of wanting to go back to his ancestral lands. When this bill comes through, he will be able to do that. I can understand that kind of attachment\u2014the call of your whakapapa, the call of your whenua to come back home\u2014so it is going to be great that he will be able to do that. It is a shame that he was not able to do it when he was a more active man. However, he will get there before 65 if this bill goes through, and I am sure it will, as it seems to have cross-party support across the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000589\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EI guess the point that the Governments of these countries have been very aware of is that bringing those people back to their small island nations will help the economy. There was something that was written in the regulatory impact statement that really resonated with me, which was New Zealand\u2019s commitment to those countries to help support them economically. I will quote from the general policy statement, and it says: \u201CThe changes take into account New Zealand\u2019s close constitutional ties with the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau and are part of New Zealand\u2019s commitment to support their ongoing economic and social viability.\u201D So basically it is hoped that this bill will enable those islands to attract capital and skills from people who are able to contribute to these island nations\u2019 economies, and potentially from other New Zealanders who, if they fit the citizenship requirements there, would be able to retire there too. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000590\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EWe will be supporting this bill. It is good to see the Government actually wanting to assist our smaller island nations. We could be doing a lot more, of course, especially in the area of climate change impact, because it is these smaller island nations that are most affected by the impacts of climate change\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000591\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d1772530483548f28c7b2568f6f7631e\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000592\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a27dcca373984ca493f9ea74a8b95593\u0022\u003EDENISE ROCHE\u003C/span\u003E: I am coming back to it, Mr Assistant Speaker. I was just giving examples of other things that this Government could be doing to assist island nations that fits with our nation\u2019s requirement to honour our special relationships with these island nations. They are the ones that are most affected by climate change and that have contributed the least emissions to the global carbon emissions, so I think maybe we have a duty for that. In the meantime, we support this bill. We acknowledge that it is a very tight and finely nuanced amendment to the legislation that is being called for here, and we recognise that there may be submissions that are wider than what is in in the bill so that it could apply to a few more people. I hope the Social Services Committee will actually take those submissions on board when they come in, and that we may see further amendments to assist more people. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002236c8c596-d890-4cca-9767-1eeb5c9ce710\u0022 data-id=\u002264c106ef50b24d96af30ddfb7a123eeb\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000593\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002236c8c596-d890-4cca-9767-1eeb5c9ce710\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002264c106ef50b24d96af30ddfb7a123eeb\u0022\u003EDARROCH BALL (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to discuss a bill on behalf of New Zealand First for the first time in this House. I am very happy to do so with this bill, the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill. New Zealand First will support this bill to go through the first reading, but we are not confident that it actually addresses, or goes far enough to address, all of the real issues that have been raised with us by these communities. New Zealand First already has a strong policy, which we have in our manifesto, that stems from the same intent that this bill suggests it has. We want to be assured of the promise that is made in the bill: \u201CThe amendments in the Bill have been the subject of a long-standing request from the leaders of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau, who view greater flexibility around pension portability as a driver for increased economic activity in those countries and that territory.\u201D We are hoping that that promise is actually delivered, because that is what New Zealand First policy would do. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000594\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002236c8c596-d890-4cca-9767-1eeb5c9ce710\u0022\u003EWe also note that the bill\u2019s explanatory note neglects to point out that the residents of those countries and the territory would still need to qualify for New Zealand superannuation and they must have been resident and present in New Zealand for more than 10 years since the age of 20, including 5 years since the age of 50. This information is pivotal to the understanding of the bill. As this bill identifies, we have a unique and very special affiliation and relationship with these islands. In fact, Tokelau, as we have heard, is a territory of New Zealand. We have a free association with these island nations where we act on behalf of these nations on defence and foreign affairs issues. It is one of these pillars of this special relationship that we hope this bill goes some way to address. Again, I will quote the bill: \u201CThe changes take into account New Zealand\u2019s close constitutional ties with the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau and are part of New Zealand\u2019s commitment to support their ongoing economic and social viability. The changes will allow the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau to attract capital and skills from their citizens who have moved to New Zealand, as well as other New Zealanders who may choose to spend their retirement years in either of those countries or that territory.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000595\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002236c8c596-d890-4cca-9767-1eeb5c9ce710\u0022\u003EIt appears the intent of the bill is to ensure that the people in these islands do not have to relocate when they are 65 and be here in New Zealand living as a resident in order to apply for and claim New Zealand superannuation. However, we hope that during the submission period the effect on New Zealand residents and citizens who wish to retire to these islands will become clearer. Do the people of these islands still need to relocate? Will they still need to be resident in New Zealand during that time? And does it solve the real issue at all? When these people need to be in New Zealand or are required to return to New Zealand, the islands lose much of the needed skill, knowledge, and momentum that these people bring to and invest in their nation. These nations can ill afford to lose these skills, and ultimately it could still cost them. In our view, this bill still hampers the need to have these skills and these professional people cemented and working in their nations. We need the flexibility with policy that will allow the value and history of our responsibility for, and relationship with, these nations to be rightly acknowledged. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000596\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002236c8c596-d890-4cca-9767-1eeb5c9ce710\u0022\u003ECompare this with our current situation, where people from other countries that have no affiliation, special history, or relationship can come into our country, not pay any tax for 10 years, and still receive the full New Zealand superannuation. We still have current legislation that affects some of the closest Pacific nations and New Zealand territories. We put restrictions on them that do not promote success in their own economies, social pathways, or foreign affairs. Nor do current policies support positive, progressive pathways that the Government could take in relation to the planning and retention of these essential people. In the end, we are talking about a very small number of people who reside in these nations and identify these islands as their retirement choice, and whom we actually need to do the right thing to look after as part of our nation\u2019s responsibility. In fact, we have a situation where 95 percent of Niuean people live in New Zealand. We are talking of a very small number, compared with nearly 70,000 immigrants from other countries who are in line for our full superannuation scheme. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000597\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002236c8c596-d890-4cca-9767-1eeb5c9ce710\u0022\u003EWe do agree with the bill\u2019s intent. It details and addresses the issues that mean the people who will be applying for New Zealand superannuation from these Pacific islands will not have to be in New Zealand as a resident in order to be eligible. We also support the fact that the changes go some way to take into account New Zealand\u2019s close constitutional ties with the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau, and are part of New Zealand\u2019s commitment to support their ongoing economic and social viability. The bill also mentions the need for the individual who applies\u2014being someone who makes an application to be paid superannuation in a specified Pacific country\u2014to be resident in one of those three islands on the date of the application; to meet the residential qualifications for New Zealand superannuation; and to be resident in one of those countries when each payment of the superannuation is due to be paid. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000598\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002236c8c596-d890-4cca-9767-1eeb5c9ce710\u0022\u003EWe note that the purpose of this bill is stated as to allow eligible persons who reside in those nations to be able to apply from either of those nations or from a territory for New Zealand superannuation or veterans pension and be paid these benefits in either of those countries or that territory or in other specified Pacific countries. As I have stated, New Zealand First supports this. It is the detail and the level to which it goes that New Zealand First hopes to be fleshed out at the select committee stage. New Zealand First will support the bill through its first reading, but we will be noting through the select committee process whether it truly meets the needs of those Cooks Islanders, Niueans, and Tokelauans who have worked hard for New Zealand and deserve their pension.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022 data-id=\u0022312f384188a046019f547eb760e10ea3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000599\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022312f384188a046019f547eb760e10ea3\u0022\u003ETODD MULLER (National\u2014Bay of Plenty):\u003C/span\u003E I am delighted to stand here in support of the introduction of the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill. It is a great to be talking to a bill that has got such cross-party support and clearly it is going to deliver significant value to the communities of Tokelau, Niue, the Cook Islands, and, of course, the community of broader Aotearoa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000600\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003EI strongly support the fact that it actually gives portability to New Zealand superannuation and war pensions. I think that has been well covered. It is great to hear that this has been a longstanding debate and discussion, which finally this Government is giving effect to. We are obviously very supportive of that. It reflects our longstanding and close constitutional ties with those three countries. It acknowledges their contribution to New Zealand. I think that has already been well canvassed on both sides of the House this evening. But it also reflects this Government\u2019s commitment to ongoing economic and social development. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000601\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003EI think this will be a popular bill, particularly across those three communities. It is something they have wanted for a while, and we are now giving effect to that. I think the opportunity to be able to return home, for those communities, from the age of 55 and be able to then, of course, call on superannuation at 65 and in the meantime be able to contribute their skills and expertise is going to be of real benefit to those three countries. Of course, it has to be noted that for those communities who currently live in the Bay of Plenty electorate, it is highly unlikely they will take up this opportunity because when given the opportunity of Tokelau, Niue, and Cook Island beaches, versus the beaches of Papamoa and Mount Maunganui, I do expect that ultimately, upon consideration, they will stay in the Bay of Plenty.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000602\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223b9771a5261c45d188df2b0dd499aa81\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: Oh, I don\u2019t know about that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000603\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f805b774263849e8bf2917b4551fcb74\u0022\u003ETODD MULLER\u003C/span\u003E: I am very sure about that. You need to come to Mount Maunganui and see it for yourself. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000604\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003EBut in all seriousness I do have a good friend of mine who is an educator and teacher from Niue, who has been over here for a number of years. He is Niuean born. He tends to go back to his home community every 2 or 3 years. I know specifically in respect of this, the opportunity for him, when he gets to the age of 55, to be able to go back to his home community and contribute in a more meaningful way, with the potential of that portability from the age of 65 onwards, I know will be attractive to him. Hopefully, many others like him will see the opportunity to potentially move home, but do so at a time when they have still got the opportunity to contribute significantly to the economic development and community development of their home countries. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000605\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003EIt is great to be able to support a bill like this. I look forward to supporting it and to the further discussions that will occur in the Social Services Committee. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002269dfdffa-4227-42b6-875a-fc8033bc25cc\u0022 data-id=\u002278e9d1e674ef4933869f2d5a563bc9f8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000606\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002269dfdffa-4227-42b6-875a-fc8033bc25cc\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002278e9d1e674ef4933869f2d5a563bc9f8\u0022\u003EJAN LOGIE (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to take a short call in support of the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill. I want to frame most of my speech around an example that was reported in the New Zealand Herald in 2012, of a Cook Islands - born man, Bill Framhein, who is now in his early 70s. He had paid tax for 34 years in New Zealand, while never being out of work while he was in this country. He had served in the New Zealand Army in Malaya and Borneo, and served four tours of duty in Viet Nam as a scout, who is the person who goes up front and finds explosives and mines. This man, after all of that commitment to New Zealand, is not eligible for a war pension or superannuation because he does not meet the criteria on two bases: firstly, that he was not living in New Zealand\u2014that he has already returned to the Cook Islands; and, secondly, that he has not lived in New Zealand for 5 full years since the age of 50. Even with the passing of this bill, Bill, who had served four tours of duty in Viet Nam, served in Malay and Borneo, and paid tax for 34 years, still will not be eligible for New Zealand superannuation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000607\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022034e45d887ce4c29a6e6aaa02dd75a4c\u0022\u003EAlfred Ngaro\u003C/span\u003E: He\u2019s already got it. He actually got it in 2013.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000608\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002269dfdffa-4227-42b6-875a-fc8033bc25cc\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227891e9098a7243a993427560ee333a8e\u0022\u003EJAN LOGIE\u003C/span\u003E: He got it in 2013, I hear. So how was that, despite not meeting the criteria? [Interruption] I welcome hearing about that. I look forward to that discussion in the select committee. I found his example really moving\u2014the media reporting of it, around how it was not possible to break the rules for one person and how he had been coming back to New Zealand for 6 months in every year just to be able to try to meet the criteria, despite having deep-vein thrombosis, and it being quite risky for his life to be doing all that travel. He made the point in that situation, and this does apply to everyone to whom this legislation will apply, that he was not angry, just a bit sad. It hurt him to realise that he was no longer treated like a New Zealander, because he thought a Cook Islander was a New Zealander, and for him to now be treated as a refugee, when he had signed up for national service, accepting the fact that he owed that duty as a New Zealander, was hard. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000609\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002269dfdffa-4227-42b6-875a-fc8033bc25cc\u0022\u003EThat does seem to hold quite a deep truth in terms of the relationship New Zealand has had with the realm countries over the last successive decades or generations. Those people from the Cooks and Niue and Tokelau, who felt and feel as New Zealanders, were called upon as New Zealanders to act, and, yet, so many conditions were put on the basic entitlements that we all consider do come with our citizenship that it meant they were not able to access them, despite the commitments they had made to this country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000610\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002269dfdffa-4227-42b6-875a-fc8033bc25cc\u0022\u003EI do just want to touch on some of the benefits of this scheme being able to encourage people to get back home at the age of 55 when they still have plenty of life and skill to contribute to countries. I think that will really help stimulate the economies. Niue is an example where the population is estimated to be now down to about 1,500 people and where most of the economy is reliant on remittances and aid from New Zealand. So to be able to enable people to go home and actually participate in the economy will be of benefit. I just hope it does not result in a reduction in aid from New Zealand. We support this bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022 data-id=\u0022ac3784cb901148c58444df458962a28c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000611\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ac3784cb901148c58444df458962a28c\u0022\u003ECARMEL SEPULONI (Labour\u2014Kelston):\u003C/span\u003E I stand to support the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill. Labour supports this bill, particularly because it does intend to honour the constitutional relationship that we in New Zealand have with our New Zealand territories, those being Niue, the Cook Islands, and Tokelau. What is proposed in this bill makes sense. At the moment, we do have the Special Portability Arrangement; however, what we see at the moment, and what this bill addresses, is the fact that Cook Island, Niuean, and Tokelauan residents need to be present in New Zealand on the date of application to be able to access those benefits.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000612\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003EWe do have a commitment to the three realm nations to ensure that we support their economic and social viability. In order to do this we need to be supportive of the idea that their people may decide to go back and invest in their own home countries. We have seen it many times across those three countries, and actually across some of the non-realm countries as well, but particularly the realm countries, where we hear over and over again that the biggest problem facing those three countries\u2014the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau\u2014is depopulation. If we can encourage some of our Cook Island, Niuean, and Tokelauan residents, in their senior years, to go back and invest\u2014in some cases, set up businesses\u2014in order to support their families there, and to look for ways that their families can be self-sustainable, then we have an obligation to support that, and this bill does do that. It does support those who wish to go back, live there in their latter years, and undertake whatever initiatives they are interested in doing when they do move back there.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000613\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003EWhile we are talking about honouring the relationship between New Zealand and the realm countries, though, we cannot help but reflect on this side of the House on some of the ways we have not honoured that relationship recently. This legislation is one way we can do that\u2014by supporting those who are retiring to be able to go back to their Pacific countries and invest. However, we need to think much more widely about how we as a country, and our Government here, invests and supports our realm countries, so that we are honouring that relationship. At the moment, we have situations, such as with Television New Zealand (TVNZ), for example, where we are not honouring that relationship. We have TVNZ, which felt comfortable with the Government of the time, a National Government, and felt comfortable that it was the right environment to be able to cut funding to M\u0101ori and Pacific programming, to reduce the content, and to outsource anything, other than Te Karere, that had M\u0101ori and Pacific content.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000614\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003EGiven the special relationship that we have with the Pacific region, we feel, on this side of the House, that as a country not only do we have an obligation to make sure that we honour the Treaty of Waitangi, and honour our tangata whenua, but also that we honour the Pacific region and all the indigenous knowledge and all the indigenous people who are part of it. And at the moment, we are failing, under this National Government, to do this.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000615\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003EAs I said earlier, depopulation is the issue that was brought up the most by the three countries I have been to, particularly during the time when New Zealand undertook its inquiry into New Zealand\u2019s relationship with the Pacific. Depopulation was mentioned over and over again by the Niuean, Cook Island, and Tokelauan Governments. It was really interesting, because here we are at the moment with a high rate of Pacific unemployment, with high levels of underachievement for Pacific peoples in our schools, and very little being done by the National Government to address those things. But what we have been told by our Niuean, Cook Island, and Tokelauan people is that they have lost their biggest resource to New Zealand\u2014their biggest resource being their people.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000616\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003EI just want to end my speech by saying that this is recognition of the special relationship that we have with our Pacific countries, particularly our realm countries, but on this side of the House we would like the National Government to think more broadly about that special relationship that we have with those Pacific countries, and look at ways in which they can honour that relationship. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002258eae615-ef83-4df5-bace-6749bdd312a8\u0022 data-id=\u0022888d805b81bf4b79a3652e1bbcbc2760\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000617\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258eae615-ef83-4df5-bace-6749bdd312a8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022888d805b81bf4b79a3652e1bbcbc2760\u0022\u003EDr PARMJEET PARMAR (National):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to support the bill. This bill takes into account New Zealand\u2019s close constitutional ties with the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau. These Pacific Islands share unique legal arrangements with New Zealand and, as the Minister for Social Development said, it is part of New Zealand\u2019s commitment to support their ongoing economic and social viability. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000618\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258eae615-ef83-4df5-bace-6749bdd312a8\u0022\u003EThis bill will help these island nations to attract capital and skills from citizens who have moved to New Zealand as well as other New Zealanders who may choose to spend their retirement years in these countries. As covered by my colleagues, it is about greater pension flexibility and about recognising hard work. It is also about recognising the contribution these communities are making to New Zealand. In Mount Roskill the communities from these Pacific Islands definitely view greater flexibility around pension portability as a positive step in support of the economy in those countries. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000619\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258eae615-ef83-4df5-bace-6749bdd312a8\u0022\u003EThe proposed amendments are clearly beneficial for people wishing to move back to these island countries, and they acknowledge New Zealand\u2019s special relationship with them. So I commend the bill to the House. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022 data-id=\u0022db6eadda5bdc450581abb2eab76703d3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000620\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022db6eadda5bdc450581abb2eab76703d3\u0022\u003EPOTO WILLIAMS (Labour\u2014Christchurch East):\u003C/span\u003E Kia orana, Mr Assistant Speaker. It is a real pleasure to take a call this evening on the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill. In this regard, I will be speaking about the experiences that I know of within the Cook Island community. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000621\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EI do want to refer to a meeting that a member on the other side of the House, Alfred Ngaro, talked about\u2014the work that we are doing with the wider Cook Island community to honour those soldiers from the Cook Islands who fought for, and on behalf of, New Zealand in World War I. I raise this in the context of this particular bill because 500 young men were recruited from the Cook Islands to fight for New Zealand in World War I, and they gave the ultimate sacrifice to this country. So the relationship that we, as Cook Islanders, have with New Zealand was forged through the blood of our young men nearly 100 years ago. I feel it is a significant point to make, and I will be referring to this a little bit later in my discussion around this, because it does mean a lot to us, as Cook Islanders, that our relationship with New Zealand is honoured in this way. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000622\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003ECook Islanders have played a significant role in building this nation. My parents came out here in the 1950s, as did yours, Alfred Ngaro, and, like many people from the Pacific, and also like M\u0101ori who came into the cities from the rural areas, they came to take advantage of the work opportunities that were here. We from the Pacific, and from the Cook Islands in particular, became the grafters, I guess. Wherever there were primary industries, wherever there was horticulture, wherever there was agriculture, wherever there was fruit to be picked, Cook Islanders were there. Wherever there was manufacturing, wherever there were aluminium smelters, steel mills, and other huge industries, Cook Islanders were there. Wherever there are service roles supporting communities, supporting elderly people, looking after the ill and the infirm, Cook Islanders are there. We have a relationship with this country that goes beyond being just members of the realm. Our relationship is one of service, of hard work, and of sacrifice.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000623\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EMy father was here in the early 1950s, and he worked for at least 30 years until he retired in the 1980s, or thereabouts. My father and my parents were true-blue Kiwis. They supported the All Blacks\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000624\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fd30631dfb564766958533d6e5c11dee\u0022\u003ETim Macindoe\u003C/span\u003E: Oh, true-blue voters.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002227ee168bf58647c7ae991742e99dfa3c\u0022\u003EPOTO WILLIAMS\u003C/span\u003E: True blue in that regard.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022530ce0c4-c977-40cb-90fb-754f54931ff1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ce1558d3d9c74a1c852ebb3f484c65f4\u0022\u003ETracey Martin\u003C/span\u003E: You don\u2019t own the phrase\u2014come on.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000627\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e760bb91304c4390988b1582852c925a\u0022\u003EPOTO WILLIAMS\u003C/span\u003E: Yes. My parents brought us up to be decent and hard-working New Zealanders. They paid their taxes. We bought a home. They raised their children, and all of us in our family strive to serve this country well, as I hope we have done.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000628\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EThis Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill talks about the close constitutional relationship that the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau have with New Zealand. Next year, for the Cook Islands, it will be 50 years of that close constitutional relationship\u201450 years of self-governing. It is a significant event for us, and I know that many in this House will be celebrating with us next year.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000629\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EI refer back to the Cook Island soldiers of World War I\u2014and, of course, next April we are going to commemorate 100 years of their service. They fought alongside New Zealand M\u0101ori. As Su\u2019a William Sio has already described, when New Zealand could not recruit any more of its own, M\u0101ui P\u014Dmare was dispatched to the Pacific to find young men to fight for New Zealand. We fought largely alongside M\u0101ori. We fought together with M\u0101ori because Cook Islanders have a very special kin relationship with tangata whenua. We have a relationship that we refer to as tuakana teina. I often talk about this when I am discussing this relationship with M\u0101ori people\u2014that, perhaps, we are the elder auntie or the elder uncle in the relationship. I often joke that we have seniority in those terms. But we have a relationship that is forged through a common migration history, as well as sharing lots of kin relationships.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EThere are proposed changes to the way that current eligibility rules apply. It used to be that you had to be present and resident in New Zealand at the age of 65, or when normal eligibility occurred. Those changes now mean that it is possible for you to have lived and been a resident in New Zealand for 10 years from the age of 20, with 5 of those years being from the age of 50. So it is possible to be resident within the Cook Islands and be eligible for the pension\u2014or the war pension, as well\u2014at the age of 65, and to apply from those home islands.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000631\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EI refer also to some of the discussion that has happened during this debate\u2014when members have referred to what is in the regulatory impact statement\u2014about depopulation, and about how that has had an impact on the home islands. What has occurred, of course, with our being able to enjoy New Zealand citizenship and the benefits of being New Zealand citizens, and our having the ability to travel on New Zealand passports, is that we have travelled from the Cook Islands, from Tokelau, and from Niue to take up residence here in New Zealand. We have taken full opportunity of the opportunities that this country presents to us, and we have not had the ability to return home and be able to have the type of income to live well in our home islands. So this legislation, we hope, will actually address some of those issues of depopulation, returning senior citizens of some note\u2014people who have had opportunities here for education\u2014who can take their skills and their experience back to their home countries.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000632\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EHowever, the legislation actually presents opportunities for all New Zealanders, as well. It has been several years since I was back in the Cook Islands, but when I was last there, it was the first time I actually felt I could live there. I actually felt I could live in the Cook Islands. You know, I may, God willing, if I actually get to the age when I can retire, actually take advantage of that myself.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000633\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EBut I want to get back to the issue of relationships. My colleague Carmel Sepuloni raised a very salient point about the relationship between New Zealand and these realm countries, and that is that our contribution to New Zealand actually has to count for something. I know that having the ability to get your superannuation back in your home island is great\u2014it is fantastic. I am very supportive of this bill, but there is an awful lot more that this country can do to support those people\u2014my people\u2014who not only have given of their industry and their hard work but, in the case of our soldiers, have given of their lives and their sacrifice.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000634\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EThe relationship actually needs to be one of mutual support, and when, as my colleague so aptly discussed, we do not see ourselves fully represented in this country\u2014when we know that our programmes on television are going to have their production outsourced\u2014it actually flies in the face of the sacrifice that we have made for the benefit of this country.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000635\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003ENew Zealand does provide aid back to our home countries, it provides work opportunities, and our home countries have provided labour. They have provided their culture\u2014the Pasifika Festival is one of the most celebrated festivals around the world\u2014but not only that, we have also provided our blood and our lives on the battlefield, and I would hope that this country would acknowledge our special relationship into the future. But I do commend this bill to the House. Thank you very much.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022 data-id=\u0022a039dc96e0274625a8fecab854e843b5\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000636\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3a88c42-f60b-4cf9-8065-8bfb80a020eb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a039dc96e0274625a8fecab854e843b5\u0022\u003ECARMEL SEPULONI (Junior Whip\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. Can I just bring up that while my colleague Poto Williams was speaking, the level of chat on that side of the House was\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u002276f1be3f62af480097a7f6fbe586d14f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000637\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002276f1be3f62af480097a7f6fbe586d14f\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I am the one who determines that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022 data-id=\u0022676f8de051464c4e8e510b6643e47be9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000638\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022676f8de051464c4e8e510b6643e47be9\u0022\u003ESTUART SMITH (National\u2014Kaik\u014Dura):\u003C/span\u003E It is with pleasure that I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u00225b8db0c4614e47a687ea17f591490cfa\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000639\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225b8db0c4614e47a687ea17f591490cfa\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Members, this debate is concluded. The question is that the motion be agreed to. Those who are of that opinion will say Aye, to the contrary, No. The Ayes have it. The question is that the Social Assistance (Portability to Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau) Bill be considered by the Social Services Committee\u2014[Interruption] Order! When I am announcing the provisions, there is silence.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000640\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003EBill read a first time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000641\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003EBill referred to the Social Services Committee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000642\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022512d92e6e48b43bbb5388666faf36b53\u0022\u003EGambling Amendment Bill (No 3)\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000643\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a6ecd33199684837a3c1d36bacd5076c\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f555a23a-d230-4f03-80ba-a44e6ec8bd29\u0022 data-id=\u0022191031d2a5b145a7a469d6da6a43cbf2\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000644\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f555a23a-d230-4f03-80ba-a44e6ec8bd29\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022191031d2a5b145a7a469d6da6a43cbf2\u0022\u003EHon PETER DUNNE (Minister of Internal Affairs):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Gambling Amendment Bill (No 3) be now read a first time. I nominate the Government Administration Committee to consider the bill. Last week when we were debating the Committee stage of the Gambling Amendment Bill (No 2) I made the point that this No. 3 bill was one more in a series of reforms to make the Gambling Act 2003 fit for purpose in an environment where a whole range of external changes are occurring at a rate that often makes it very difficult for us to keep up. If I go back to the main Act, the Gambling Act 2003, it makes it very clear that one of its primary purposes is to permit gambling other than in casinos to raise funds for the community, which means, in turn, that the whole system is expected to be operated on a not-for-profit basis. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000645\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f555a23a-d230-4f03-80ba-a44e6ec8bd29\u0022\u003EThe changes that are contained in this bill tidy up a number of areas of administration. They are not particularly exciting, any or all of them in themselves, but they are an important set of reforms that make sure, as I said earlier, that our gambling laws remain fit for purpose in this country. These changes in this bill relate mainly to the class 4 sector, which is the gambling operations that rely on electronic gaming machines in pubs and clubs. We have a very complicated regulatory system for these. The tensions between commercial and non-commercial players in this sector over a period of time have been quite high. There is a constant flow of restructuring taking place within the sector as some operators exit and others enter, and as some agglomerate and others separate. It is important, therefore, that our gambling regime tries as best it can to keep reasonable tabs on this situation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000646\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f555a23a-d230-4f03-80ba-a44e6ec8bd29\u0022\u003EWhat this bill does\u2014it is comparatively short\u2014is introduce five key sets of amendments. The first set of amendments is around reducing red tape, because that has been one of the great banes of the operators. A number of the complaints that we have received from people who seek to gain funding from the proceeds are about the amounts available because of the high operational costs, which is also important. So these changes will specify venue operators\u2019 payments, and they will also lift the prohibition that is currently in place for payments to venue operators for the commission that is paid to them. So there will be a more flexible arrangement in that regard, and that is designed to remove a lot of the rigidity and the red tape within the system. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000647\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f555a23a-d230-4f03-80ba-a44e6ec8bd29\u0022\u003EOne of the other very big cries that comes through any talk about gambling reform is the need to give communities better information on grant-making decisions and to make sure that they can see the greatest level of transparency possible, and that is the second of the five changes. The reporting requirements for class 4 operators are being changed so that standardised information about individual recipients will be available. We will also introduce provisions in this bill where grant committee members will have to declare any direct or indirect interests that they may have in successful grants to societies. The publication of class 4 operators\u2019 financial information and key indicators around that can also be prescribed so that the community will get a better sense of the way in which these organisations are operating. They will be able to see more directly the benefit they are likely to derive from the funding that is made available, and they can reach the conclusion as to whether or not that funding is a reasonable proportion of the amount being raised by those particular machines. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000648\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f555a23a-d230-4f03-80ba-a44e6ec8bd29\u0022\u003EThe third set of changes relates to conflict of interest provisions. These changes largely strengthen the current provisions. They ensure that the conflict of interest provisions in the Gambling Act that apply to gambling societies, venue operators, and grant recipients are pretty much standardised.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000649\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f555a23a-d230-4f03-80ba-a44e6ec8bd29\u0022\u003EDebate interrupted.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411041f0dc0272f034c168723169145ae92c3000650\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f555a23a-d230-4f03-80ba-a44e6ec8bd29\u0022\u003ESitting suspended from 10 p.m to 9 a.m. (Wednesday)\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u002234b24deec38c482a811558a202803552\u0022\u003ETUESDAY, 4 NOVEMBER 2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000002\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022f5389e71b1cc4a6c938629cac3950422\u0022\u003E(continued on Wednesday, 5 November 2014)\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000003\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002228a3193a4dc946969082f66fbcbfdd0b\u0022\u003ETe Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000004\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022e201210a3a0e4822aa192669b860b481\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022 data-id=\u0022ba2d4c1a0f374eb0bcff7b5fa89dd551\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000005\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ba2d4c1a0f374eb0bcff7b5fa89dd551\u0022\u003EHon CHRISTOPHER FINLAYSON (Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill be now read a first time. I nominate the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee to consider this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000006\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EI want to begin by welcoming the representatives of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki who are here in Parliament today to attend this first reading. I acknowledge their ancestors, and the weight of the historical grievances that they have borne. I also want to acknowledge the recent passing of Eru Thompson, a kaum\u0101tua of Ng\u0101ti M\u0101hanga and Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Mr Thompson was the iwi spokesperson when we signed an agreement in principle in early 2010. Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki representatives here today will be returning to Auckland after this first reading to attend his tangi, and I acknowledge their grief. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000007\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EOn 22 February this year I signed a deed of settlement on behalf of the Crown with Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. The deed and this Treaty settlement bill put to rest the longstanding grievances of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. This iwi and its members are descendants of the youngest son of the ancestor Maki, named T\u0101whi\u0101kiterangi, who also took the name Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. There are other iwi and hap\u016B who claim descent from Maki\u2019s other sons, such as Ng\u0101ti Manuhiri, who have their own Treaty settlement. Collectively, these descendants of Maki are sometimes called the Te Kawerau confederation, which can cause confusion. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000008\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003ETe Kawerau \u0101 Maki hold customary interests in the T\u0101maki region, particularly through Hikurangi and the Waitakere Ranges, which can be described as the heartland of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Their customary interests extend through lands in the upper Waitemat\u0101 Harbour, the North Shore, and into the Mahurangi coast and south Kaipara. This is a broad rohe, through which Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki maintain relationships with many other iwi. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000009\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EIn 2008 the Crown recognised the mandate of the Te Kawerau Iwi Tribal Authority to represent Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki in negotiations. A year later, in June 2009, Sir Douglas Graham proposed that all the iwi and hap\u016B in the Kaipara, T\u0101maki, and Hauraki regions, including Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, enter direct negotiations with the Crown to settle their historical Treaty grievances. Sir Douglas also proposed collective redress for the iwi of T\u0101maki over the maunga and the motu. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000010\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EIn February 2010 I signed on behalf of the Crown an agreement of principle with Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Negotiations continued until 12 December last year, when the negotiators and I initialled the deed of settlement. After initialling, the tribal authority took the deed to the wider community. Hui were held and a vote was taken. Of those who voted, 99 percent support the settlement. This is an outstanding result, and I congratulate Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki on their fine efforts. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000011\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EIn the negotiating team I must acknowledge the perseverance of Te W\u0101rena Taua, the lead negotiator and the chairman of the tribal authority. When I signed the deed of settlement in February, I said he was a very difficult man to deal with and I stand by that statement of the truth. Through our negotiations we traversed a number of hard issues. We ultimately resolved them, and this will be for the benefit and the durability of the settlement. Finally, behind the negotiators have been the trustees for the iwi tribal authority. They have worked tirelessly to have their grievances addressed, and I acknowledge that their Treaty settlement process has been a very long journey for them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000012\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EIt is worth saying something about these historical grievances. Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki lost most of their land through extensive and excessive Crown purchases in the three decades after the signing of the Treaty. What reserves were set aside were never protected and were gradually alienated from tribal control. At the end of this process, Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki were rendered landless. This had a severe impact on the health and well-being of their community. Today, they are one of the few iwi in T\u0101maki that do not have a marae or an urup\u0101 on their own land. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000013\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EThe financial and commercial redress provided to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki recognises the losses that have been suffered by them. They will receive $6.5 million, plus interest, and with this money they will acquire 86 percent of Riverhead Forest Crown forest licensed land. The accumulated rentals that come with the forest will provide a cash reserve and allow other commercial opportunities to be taken up. With good management, this redress will provide the iwi with a commercial base for the future. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000014\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003ECultural redress provided to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki includes the vesting of nine culturally significant sites, including lands on which they can establish a marae and an urup\u0101. The balance of the cultural redress package includes an overlay classification over Te Henga Historic Reserve, 11 statutory acknowledgments, and other redress that is culturally significant to the iwi. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000015\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EI consider the bill should proceed without delay to the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. As I said often in the last Parliament, the committee was brilliantly chaired by Mr Henare, and I have no doubt at all that the new team on the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee are going to deal with this legislation urgently and get it back to the House for its final stages. I commend the bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022 data-id=\u0022e58ad16c4f544773b6a84b1284c6b634\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000016\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e58ad16c4f544773b6a84b1284c6b634\u0022\u003EPEENI HENARE (Labour\u2014T\u0101maki Makaurau):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koe Mr Speaker. K\u0101ti e Te Whare, Reo M\u0101ori. Kia hiwa r\u0101, kia hiwa r\u0101! Kia hiwa r\u0101 ki t\u0113nei tuku! Kia hiwa r\u0101 ki t\u0113n\u0101 tuku! Ka whakapurua koe i te toto, ka whakapuru tonu, ka whakapuru tonu! Ka whakapuru tonu! Ka whakapuru tonu ng\u0101 tai ki Te Henga, e tangi t\u012Bari ana ki runga o Te Taupaki, k\u0101re koa ko au e kimi ana, e hahau ana i ng\u0101 pari r\u0101, i ng\u0101 piringa, ahakoa ko wai. Ka t\u014D te r\u0101 ki tua o te \u0101kau, ka ara mai ki runga i a Maki e t\u016B nei. Tihewa mauri ora! Ki Te Pane o Mataoho, ki Te Ara P\u016Beru, kua tau te k\u0101kahu taratara, te k\u0101kahu r\u0113rea ki runga i t\u014Dna tihi. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000017\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EE te p\u0101p\u0101 e Eru, e taku rata t\u016Btahi, e te k\u0101k\u0101kura o Te Wao Takunui \u0101 Tiriw\u0101. Kua roa rawa koe e h\u0101pai ana i te mana o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, o Ng\u0101ti Te Ata, Ng\u0101ti Mahanga, Ng\u0101ti Pukenga o Tainui Waka wh\u0101nui. I rauh\u012B koe i ng\u0101 moemoe\u0101 me ng\u0101 maru\u0101p\u014D o te tini, o te mano i tau ki runga o T\u0101maki Makaurau. Kua p\u014Dhara m\u0101tou i t\u014D ngarotanga atu \u0113rangi ka ora tonu koe ki roto i \u0113nei k\u014Drero, me ng\u0101 mahi ka t\u012Bmatahia ki roto i t\u0113nei Whare i te rangi nei. N\u014D reira, ka t\u0101pae atu ki runga i a koe, ko ng\u0101 mihi ki ng\u0101 kaum\u0101tua me ng\u0101 kuia katoa i ngaro atu ki te p\u014Dk\u0101k\u0101 o \u0113nei mahi. Kotahi tonu te k\u014Drero m\u014D r\u0101tou kua ngaro atu ki te p\u014D, rire, rire, hau, Pai m\u0101rire! Ka whakahokia mai te r\u0101rangi k\u014Drero ki te t\u0101huhu o t\u0113nei Whare, ki te hunga ora, ki a koutou e ng\u0101 pu\u0101waitanga o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, ten\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000018\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003E[Thank you Mr Speaker, and to the House. I am going to speak in the M\u0101ori language. Be alert and wary, be alert and wary! Be alert and wary on this and that rampart in case you are crammed up repeatedly by blood! Tides cram repeatedly up at Te Henga and shriek and reverberate above Te Taupaki. Without a doubt it is I seeking out and striking against those cliffs, havens and whomever. The sun sets beyond the coastline and rises above Maki standing here before me. Behold the breath of life! The barbed cloak that flies at the top of its peak has come to rest at Te Pane Mataaho and at Te Ara P\u016Beru. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000019\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EAnd so to you uncle Eru, my lone standing rata tree, precious orator of the great forest of Tiriw\u0101, you spent many, many years raising the integrity of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, Ng\u0101ti Te Ata, Ng\u0101ti Mahanga, and Ng\u0101ti Pukenga of the Tainui canoe at large. You fostered the dreams and aspirations of the many thousands who settled in Auckland. We are impoverished by your loss but you will live on in these talks and in the work that will be initiated in this House today. I place upon you the tributes to all the elderly men and womenfolk who died in the stormy nature of these deeds. There is but one statement to them lost to the void, rire, rire, hau, Pai m\u0101rire! I bring the talk back to the ridgepole of this House, to the living, and to those of you the descendants of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, my greetings, congratulations and accolades to you all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000020\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EThe Labour Party supports the first reading of this bill and recognises Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, who, despite mourning the recent loss of one of their leaders, in Eru Thompson, have continued to forge ahead with their future today, and I acknowledge them. Throughout the speeches on this matter, my esteemed colleagues from within the Labour Party will take us on a journey that brings into light the rich history of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. We will also speak to matters in this bill and, time permitting, highlight some of the opportunities that will mark the future for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000021\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EThe fact that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki are here today is cause to celebrate. Their story is a tale of established settlement in and throughout wider T\u0101maki-makau-rau, from just south of Te M\u0101nukanuka o Hoturoa, otherwise known as the Manukau Harbour, stretching north to the southern Kaipara Harbour. We greet Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki today. This settlement saw Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki grow and thrive for hundreds of years. At their disposal were the vast resources of land and sea. This is illustrated by the following proverb of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki: he toka h\u0101puku ki te moana, he kaihua ki uta. [A rock in the sea where h\u0101puku abound, a tree where birds are speared on the land.] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EThe term \u201Cmana whenua\u201D has no doubt been long debated in this House, much to the amusement of iwi M\u0101ori and, indeed, of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki today, for the rich history and genealogy of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki has been handed down through many generations. This history tells of the feats of their many ancestors who guided their people through prosperous times; through war with Ng\u0101ti Wh\u0101tua, Ng\u0101puhi, and other competing iwi and hap\u016B throughout the T\u0101maki isthmus; through trying times of colonisation that, as the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations pointed out, saw systematic alienation of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki from their lands and resources; through to more recent times where Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki have traversed the legal minefields to gain mana whenua status, as dictated to them by the Crown. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000023\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EWe need only look to the history of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki to define what mana whenua means. The historical place names that are still shared in traditional M\u0101ori schools of learning are finally coming to the light of public knowledge. It is in that vein I acknowledge the many ancestors and the many leaders within Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, the storehouses of such precious and ancient knowledge. Indeed, the name of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, as the Minister has already pointed out, affords us a snapshot of a point in time for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. He is the son of Maki and takes his name from a dispute between his father and the people of Ng\u0101ti Wh\u0101tua over k\u016Bmara. On that point, I must say to the House that the k\u016Bmara has a lot to answer for. M\u0101ori history speaks of the k\u016Bmara being a point of war between many tribes. I want to acknowledge Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, who, in their battle with Ng\u0101ti Wh\u0101tua, found peace, and their shared genealogy today is testament to their enduring legacy of being not only a staunch warrior nation but also peacemakers in times of war.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000024\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003ETe Wao Nui o Tiriw\u0101, otherwise known as the Waitakere Ranges, is another name that has been burnt into Papat\u016B\u0101nuku. I say it was burnt into Papat\u016B\u0101nuku for if it was left to the Crown, that name would have been lost for many years. In fact, I would say it would have been lost to time. However, that name has been held by Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, and it is testament to this House and to them that mana whenua held by Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki has gone on for many generations from circa 1500 to today, and long may it continue into the future. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000025\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EThe Minister acknowledges the breaches of the Crown with matters arising from Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we know, is a founding document. We believe\u2014certainly Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki share this belief\u2014that it is a founding document of this country. However, I notice in the bill that it also refers to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi. I want to echo the words of my grandfather in this very House, who said: \u201CLet it be a reminder to this House in the history of our people we did not sign the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi. However, we did sign Te Tiriti o Waitangi.\u201D And it is from that kawenata, or that sacred covenant, entered into by our people that we find Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki here and we have the first reading of the bill, and, of course, we support it as the Labour Party. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000026\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EI want to just briefly touch on some of the details within this bill that talk about redress\u2014cultural, commercial, and otherwise. We know that this bill affords to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki a seat at the table when it comes to matters pertaining to their w\u0101hi tapu, their sacred sites, and to land held by them. Can I with caution congratulate Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki and the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations on finding this compromise. However, that caution I want to share is that when we consider tino rangatiratanga, is this true self-determination? Yes, I agree that it is a start. However, I look forward to a more prosperous time for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki in years to come, one that shares the values of tino rangatiratanga as left to us by our ancestors in Te Tiriti o Waitangi; not one prescribed by this House but one they hold dear to their hearts. K\u0101ti ake r\u0101. On the w\u0101hi tapu that have been signed over to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, it is with great sadness that we hear that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki do not have a traditional marae on their traditional lands, that they do not have a urup\u0101 where they can rest the descendants\u2014the descendants of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. And it is with great pleasure that I want to support the Minister and his officials in allowing and affording the people of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki a traditional right that was theirs from the beginning.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000027\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EN\u014D reira, k\u0101ti ake r\u0101 e Te Whare. Ka huri t\u016B atu ki a koutou e Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki kua tat\u016B mai nei ki runga i te t\u0101h\u016Bh\u016B o t\u0113nei Whare, ka tukuna atu \u0113nei k\u014Drero hei t\u012Bmatanga anake. Ka uru atu ki te p\u0101nuitanga tuatahi o t\u0113nei pire ki roto i te roanga ake o te haere o t\u0113nei pire, ka \u0101ta totohe, ka \u0101ta k\u014Drero t\u0101tau katoa i \u0113nei take, e aku rangatira, e Te Whare, e Te M\u0101ngai, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tau katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000028\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003E[So enough for now for the House. I turn to you Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki who have arrived here beneath the roof of this House, and say that these sentiments are presented as a starting point only. When we enter into the first reading of this bill and into the lengthy progress that it will go through, we will all carefully debate and deliberate over these matters together. So my acknowledgments and thanks to you my esteemed elders, the House, Mr Speaker, and us all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022 data-id=\u00220b62d7cf9b6c4865b65e2c03da43dd2a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000029\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220b62d7cf9b6c4865b65e2c03da43dd2a\u0022\u003EMARAMA FOX (Co-Leader\u2014M\u0101ori Party):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100 t\u0113n\u0101 koe e Te Mana Whakaw\u0101. Karanga mai ko Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, ko Te Wao Nui-\u0101-Tiriw\u0101 mai Te Korekore ki ng\u0101 Tai-\u0101-Rakataura, ko Rangihina, ko Whangapar\u0101oa, ko Mahurangi, n\u0101 Maki te mana me te rangatiratanga! T\u0113n\u0101 koutou i ng\u0101 \u0101huatanga o te w\u0101, iri te rau kawakawa, iri i te whare aitu\u0101, he piki, he raukura, he k\u014Dtore huia. Ka whaitia, ka whaitia, ka ngaro ki Paerau, ka ngaro whakaoti atu. \u0100piti hono, t\u0101tai hono, ko te hunga mate ki te hunga mate, \u0101piti hono, t\u0101tai hono, ko t\u0101tou te hunga ora, te kanohi kitea ki a t\u0101tou an\u014D, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000030\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Speaker. Behold Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki and Te Wao Nui-\u0101-Tiriw\u0101 call from the Realm of Potential Being to the tides of Rakataura, as indeed do Rangihina, Whangapar\u0101oa and Mahurangi. Maki has the power and autonomy! Greetings to you collectively with regard to the circumstances of the time. Adorning the house of death are macropiper excelsium leaves, as do the feathers, plumes, and tail feathers of the huia in our pursuit of a loved one passed and lost to the Meeting Place of the Dead for ever. The lines are drawn, let the dead be united unto themselves and us the living, the seen faces, interact with ourselves as well, I acknowledge you collectively.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000031\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EAs we gather here this morning we grieve the passing of a son of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, Eru Thompson. Four years ago, on 18 February 2010, it was Eru Thompson who was pictured in a symbolic hongi with Sir Doug Graham, the then Crown negotiator for the agreement in principle. It is so fitting that as this significant claim reaches its first reading we acknowledge the incredible efforts and sacrifices made by all those who have carried this claim. After more than 150 years of annihilation from your whenua and a negotiations process stretching back nearly 7 years, this is a very significant day for the descendants of T\u0101whia-ki-te-Rangi, a day signed with sadness, a day touched with meaning. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000032\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003ETe Kawerau \u0101 Maki originally lodged claims with the Waitangi Tribunal nearly 30 years ago, but the history dates back over centuries. We welcome to the House today Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, the descendants of the famous chief Maki and his wife Rotu, who in the early 17th century migrated with their wh\u0101nau from K\u0101whia to what is now the T\u0101maki-makau-rau region. In time the children of Maki and his followers dispersed throughout the southern Kaipara, Te Whenua roa \u014D Kahu, Hikurangi, Whangapar\u0101oa, Mahurangi, Matakanakana, Pakiri, Aotea, and Te Hauturu-o-Toi. Together they are known today as Te Kawerau confederation. Nau mai, haere mai ki te Whare P\u0101remata.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000033\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003ETe Kawerau \u0101 Maki held their land and resources under collective tribal custodianship. Their rangatira exercised authority over their tribal domain and the surrounding sea. They enjoyed a highly mobile lifestyle based on a cycle of seasonal resource gathering. With intermarriage they soon had interests throughout the wider area settled by Te Kawerau confederation. However\u2014and this is where our story becomes laden with heaviness\u2014intertribal warfare and the arrival of Europeans had a devastating toll on the tribe, especially during the 19th century when numbers dwindled. European contact in the late 18th and early 19th centuries brought the tragedy of rewharewha. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000034\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EIn 1825 Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki then suffered major losses in battles and with other groups were forced to exile to the Waikato. In 1835 they returned to Waitakere in the south Kaipara under the protection of Tainui ariki, Te Wherowhero. By 1840 Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, although reduced in numbers like other tribes of the region, were resident on their ancestral land. They continued to exercise kaitiakitanga over the vast natural resources and focused on the Waitakere coastline between P\u012Bh\u0101 and Muriwai. At the time Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki had little direct contact with the Crown. However, pre-Treaty land transactions between other iwi and early European settlers saw the annihilation of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki lands. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000035\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EFrom 1841 the Land Claims Commission investigated the pre-Treaty transactions. However, when resolving them, the Crown failed to consider Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s interests. The Crown granted settlers lands and retained a surplus of land for itself. In 1841 the Crown purchased an extensive area called Mahurangi and \u014Cmaha. This area included land that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki held shared interests in, but true to form Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki was not consulted about the sale. Nor did the Crown provide adequate compensation in reserves when it later learned of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s interests in the area. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000036\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EBetween 1844 and 1845 the Crown waived its right of pre-emption, allowing private individuals to negotiate directly with M\u0101ori. However, the Crown did not apply the regulations it had established to protect M\u0101ori. Through these transactions Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki lost land in west Auckland and around the upper Waitemat\u0101 Harbour. The Crown took with one hand and gave with another, providing land for settlers and gaining control of the local rich timber sources. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000037\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EIn 1853 and 1854 the Crown turned its attention to acquisition of 100,000 acres in the Waitakere Ranges, deep in the rohe of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. That is right\u2014100,000 acres. These purchases included the Hikurangi block, for \u00A31,100. The heavily forested block was estimated to include 12,000 acres. It was not surveyed at the time. It was later found to include 54,141 acres. Again, the deed was not signed by any leading Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki rangatira. No reserves were set aside for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki in the large Hikurangi block. Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki received \u00A350 as a final payment for Hikurangi and two neighbouring blocks. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000038\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EFrom the mid-1860s the individualisation of title made Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki lands, including their reserve lands, more susceptible to partition, fragmentation, and alienation. This process continued throughout the 20th century for the very limited areas of the land that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki had left. Between 1920 and 1951 the Crown acquired the remaining Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki interests in K\u014Dpironui and Puketapu blocks in south Kaipara. The Crown did this by compulsory purchases and Public Works Act takings for sand dune reclamation, despite Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki protest. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000039\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EThe Crown\u2019s actions and omissions have meant that today Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki is virtually landless, with no marae or urup\u0101 of its own, as has been previously said. The Crown\u2019s failure to ensure Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki was left with sufficient land for its present and future needs has completely and utterly stalled the tribe\u2019s social, economic, and cultural development. Furthermore, this failure has undermined the ability of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki to protect and manage its taonga and w\u0101hi tapu and to maintain spiritual connections to the lands. Today the Crown acknowledges that for too long it failed to appropriately respond to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki claims for redress and justice for its breaches of the Treaty and its subsequent failure to protect the lands reserved for iwi. Today we finally begin to lift the burden of grievance for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2014a day that is long overdue. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000040\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EAs we start to make those next tentative steps forward, the M\u0101ori Party stands to acknowledge the trustees of the Te Kawerau Iwi Tribal Authority. You have acted so diligently and unrelentingly on behalf of your t\u016Bpuna and your present descendants, and you have secured a future for generations of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki yet to come. We take this moment to acknowledge you: George Winikere Taua, Te W\u0101rena Taua, Miriama Tamariki, H\u0101muera Taua, and Ng\u0101rama Walker. An\u014D, n\u0101 koutou i whakapau werawera, i whakapau kaha, ka tuohu te m\u0101hunga ki mua i t\u014D koutou aroaro. [Once again, and because you collectively expended sweat and energy, I bow my head before you.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000041\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EFinally, I want to leave the last word to your own Eru Thompson. On that auspicious day of the signing in 2010, Eru summed up the importance of the settlement when he said: \u201CIt\u2019s taken almost 30 years for the Government to admit that my people are the tribe of the region. That is just a step leading up to the completion of the claim. It was never going to be exactly what we wanted. The issue is now about moving forward and developing a future for our grandchildren.\u201D Moe mai r\u0101, Eru. Your work to this point is done. Ka waiho an\u014D te toenga mahi ki a m\u0101tou te hunga ora, te hunga t\u016Btuki i \u014D wawata. N\u014D reira, e te wh\u0101nau Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, kai raro.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000042\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E[What remains to be done is for us the living, the ones who are to fulfil your aspirations, to address once again. And so I salute you the family of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki and resume my seat.] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022 data-id=\u0022896ba2dc1bb7476aa56a25bdd7372ed3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000043\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022896ba2dc1bb7476aa56a25bdd7372ed3\u0022\u003EKELVIN DAVIS (Labour\u2014Te Tai Tokerau):\u003C/span\u003E T\u0113n\u0101 koe Mr Speaker. Tuatahi m\u0101ku, ka huri ake ki a koutou o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki i tae mai ki raro i te t\u0101huhu o t\u0113nei Whare hei rongohia i t\u0113nei, te p\u0101nuitanga tuatahi o t\u0113nei pire. E ai ki ng\u0101 k\u014Drero e tautokongia ng\u0101 k\u014Drero o te whanaunga nei a Peeni, he t\u012Bmatanga t\u0113nei, ehara t\u0113nei i te otinga. N\u0101 reira, p\u012Bkaungia mai \u014D koutou tini mate kei runga i \u014D koutou pokowhiwhi, utaina mai ki runga i ng\u0101 mate o konei. Te haerenga o t\u0113r\u0101 o ng\u0101 rangatira, a Eru, \u0113hara t\u014Dna haerenga, he haerenga mokemoke. Ko t\u014Dku hungawai kua mate i ng\u0101 r\u0101 kua taha ake nei, te p\u0101p\u0101 o t\u014Dku hoa rangatira, otir\u0101, n\u0101 runga i t\u014Dna ng\u0101kau atawhai ki w\u0113nei kaupapa, n\u0101na i mea mai ki ahau kia haere mai ki konei, hei korero ki w\u0113nei pire, hei mua i t\u014Dku hokinga atu ki te k\u0101inga m\u014D te nehunga o t\u014Dku hungawai. N\u0101 reira, e Eru, e Tom, te hungawai, haere atu kourua takirua, haere atu, hono atu ki a r\u0101tou kua haere i mua i a kourua, haere, haere! Ko r\u0101tou te hunga wairua ki a r\u0101tou, ko t\u0101tou ng\u0101 kanohi ora t\u0101tou ki a t\u0101tou an\u014D, huri rauna t\u0113n\u0101 koutou.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000044\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Speaker. The first thing for me is to address Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, who have arrived here under the ridgepole of this House to hear the first reading of this bill. In line with the sentiments expressed by this relative Peeni, which I endorse, this is only a beginning, it is not the ending. Therefore, bring forth your many deaths that you bear on your shoulders and place them upon those here. The passing of that one of the esteemed elders, Eru, is not a lonely departure. My father-in-law, father of my wife, died 2 days ago, but because of her kindness in matters like these, she said to me to come and address these bills before returning home for the burial of my father-in-law. Therefore to you Eru and father-in-law Tom, depart both of you, link up with those who have gone on before you two, depart, farewell. Allow the spirits to be with the spirits and we the living to be with the living as well. So acknowledgments to us throughout and thank you collectively.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000045\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EI just, initially, would like to acknowledge the people of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki who have arrived here to hear this, the first reading of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill. I agree with my colleague and whanaunga Peeni when he says that this is just the beginning of better things for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. I also ask them to bring with them the spirits of their dearly departed, such as Eru Thompson, who passed away yesterday. We have a saying in M\u0101ori that the spiritual walk is not a lonely walk because of the numbers who are going alongside. I just want to acknowledge that someone else who is walking that path with Eru is my father-in-law, who passed away in the last couple of days. My wife, knowing the importance of these bills, said it was fine to go and talk to the bills\u2014this bill and the one that follows\u2014before heading back to Kait\u0101ia for the funeral. So we just acknowledge all those who have passed on, but we say, te hunga wairua, ki te hunga wairua. [The spirits, with the spirits.] Those people who have passed on, they will be with themselves, and we who are living must return to ourselves. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000046\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EIf the House can just bear with me, I am going to read some of the evidence from Graeme Murdoch, written in March 2000 around the Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki claims. I think it actually describes the issues and the history very well in terms of why we have got to the place where we are now. I will start: \u201CTe Kawerau \u0101 Maki regard themselves as a distinct iwi but recognise their close genealogical connections with other tribal groupings of Kawerau descent. This applies in particular to the present day Ng\u0101ti Wai hap\u016B of Ng\u0101ti Manuhiri, Ng\u0101ti Rehua, and it also applies to Ng\u0101ti Rongo hap\u016B and Ng\u0101ti Wh\u0101tua, and the seldom recognised Ng\u0101ti Te Kahupara hap\u016B of Ng\u0101ti Wh\u0101tua and Te Kawerau descent. All of these tribal groupings share descent from the founding Kawerau ancestors Maki and Mataahu, and their children. Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki also treasure their special ancestral ties and associations with the Waiohua hap\u016B, who live around the shores of the Manukau Harbour. It is with them that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki have long-shared allegiances to the K\u012Bngitanga and the Paimarire faith. Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Trust, who have lodged the claim, Wai 470, represent approximately 800 people, yet the iwi has so often been portrayed as being extinct until recent decades. In 1988 there was a television documentary series, Waka Huia, and in a dramatic opening to the programme, the Rev. Hone Kaa commented on this enigma, stating: \u201CKai te tirohia e t\u0101tou ng\u0101 k\u014Drero i tuhia e tauiwi. Kei reira e takoto ana te k\u014Drero ko te iwi o Te Kawerau kua rite ki te moa, kua mate, kua ngaro. Kei konei t\u0101tou ki Te Henga.\u201D [We are examining the stories written by foreigners. Lying amongst it is the statement that the tribe of Te Kawerau has become like the moa. It has died, it has become extinct. We are here at Te Henga.] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000047\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EThis view of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki as a lost tribe who have disappeared off the face of the earth has been widely held and promoted by successive authors in recent generations. It is a view which has resulted from an ignorance of the complexity of M\u0101ori whakapapa and the history in the Auckland region, and also from an almost total reliance on 19th century historical chronologies produced by such authors as Percy Smith, John White, and George Graham. Most importantly, however, it is a perception resulting directly from the actions of the Crown, which have left Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki bereft of their ancestral land and without a marae or k\u0101inga to call their own.\u201D\u2014and, we hear, without even an urup\u0101 of their own to bury their dead. \u201CPrior to 1840 Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki lost a significant proportion of their ancestral land through old land claims transacted on the North Shore and west Auckland, and at Mahurangi. This loss intensified when the Crown allowed the pre-emptive waiver claims from 1844 to 1846 in contravention of the Crown\u2019s sole right of pre-emption and responsibility of protection under the Treaty of Waitangi. In a further contravention of the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, these transactions were legitimised by the Crown through an extremely cursory investigation in contravention of its own policies and regulations. Most importantly, Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki were not involved in the transactions or in the Crown-sponsored process which legitimised them. They had no opportunity to challenge the Crown grants made or to obtain any compensation for their loss. These actions from the Crown from 1840 to 1848 resulted in the alienation of some 30,000 acres of land within the claim area alone where Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki held or shared important ancestral interests and rights. A similar amount of land was also alienated as a result of the same process in West Auckland, the heartland of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki iwi and also within Mahurangi area. By 1848 Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki had lost control of all their ancestral k\u0101inga, mahinga kai, and w\u0101hi tapu around the shores of the upper Waitemat\u0101 Harbour, which was an integral part of their ancestral home. This massive alienation confirmed through the Crown aggregation of the surplus land subject to the pre-emptive waiver claims and was intensified as a result of the Crown purchases that followed from 1848.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000048\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EThe evidence then goes on through the decades and outlines the result\u2014the consequences\u2014of that alienation. Then we get to 1918: \u201CSadly, Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki k\u0101inga, Waitakere, Muriwai, and K\u014Dpironui were severely impacted by the 1918 influenza epidemic and the tribe\u2019s numbers fell again. By this time much of the west coast land that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki and Ng\u0101ti Te Kahupara shared an ancestral interest in had become engulfed by sand.\u201D Basically, the south head of the Kaipara Harbour is a big sandbank that has built up over millions of years and was settled on. \u201CIn 1920 the Waitemat\u0101 County Council and the Crown moved to compulsorily acquire these lands for sand dune reclamation purposes. This included most of the inalienable K\u014Dpironui reserve land that remained in Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki ownership. As a result of these acquisitions the Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki k\u0101inga at K\u014Dpironui became inaccessible. Thus by 1920, just 80 years after the arrival of the Crown and European settlement, Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki had lost the practical ability to occupy their only remaining k\u0101inga. Several families now settled at P\u016Bkaki and \u014Cr\u0101kei, while others were scattered throughout the Auckland region, meeting only for lifecycle events in private homes or on non-Kawerau marae.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000049\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EThe evidence is substantial about the effects of the Crown\u2019s actions on Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. This bill goes a small way to redeeming some of the actions of the Crown. I support the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations and I have to acknowledge his work in settling a number of Treaty claims. Again, I would just like to acknowledge Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki for being here to see and hear this first reading. Kia ora.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000050\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221b2fa9788d674e2bb4f8e82eb27f6b59\u0022\u003ENuk Korako\u003C/span\u003E: Ko te hau mua\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225f1453f8-c44e-4ce6-b699-64d600322276\u0022 data-id=\u0022801382a6b32b468398fa88ea4cb16eb0\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000051\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225f1453f8-c44e-4ce6-b699-64d600322276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022801382a6b32b468398fa88ea4cb16eb0\u0022\u003EMr DEPUTY SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Sorry to interrupt the member. When someone is seeking the call, they should stand and call \u201CMr Speaker,\u201D and wait for their name to be called. Can we just start that again, please?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022 data-id=\u0022b69e6036b2be4155bdd93bf6c2ea9069\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000052\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b69e6036b2be4155bdd93bf6c2ea9069\u0022\u003ENUK KORAKO (National):\u003C/span\u003E E Te Mana Whakaw\u0101 Tuarua, \u0101, t\u0113n\u0101 koe. Ko te hau mua, ko te hau muri, ko te hau tamaw\u0101hine, ko te hau tamat\u0101ne, e t\u016B mai r\u0101 te tokatoka a T\u0101nenui\u0101raki, e t\u016Bturu mautia, whakamaua ka tina, tina, haumi e, hui e, taiki e! \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 r\u0101 koutou ng\u0101 pou waik\u0101k\u0101 o t\u014D t\u0101tou matua t\u012Bpuna, k\u0101 mea nui ki te mihi atu ki t\u014D t\u0101tou Matua Nui i Te Raki, ko Ia te t\u012Bmataka me te whakaoti o k\u0101 mea katoa. \u0100, n\u014D reira ka mihi au ki Te Kaih\u014Dmai o k\u0101 mea pai katoa. Ka maumahara m\u0101tou ki a r\u0101tou k\u0101 aitu\u0101 kua wehe ki te taha wairua. \u0100, n\u014D reira e koutou r\u0101, o ia marae, o ia iwi, o ia waka, e haere i ruka ki te ara o te wh\u0101nui a T\u0101ne ko tua o te \u0101rai, haere, e haere, e haere atu r\u0101! E haere atu r\u0101 e hoa, e Eru Thompson. E Eru, e haere atu r\u0101 ki te p\u0101 o te whakawairua, e takoto mai, takoto mai, takoto mai! E takoto i rangim\u0101rie i runga i t\u014D waka. E hoe atu t\u014D waka ko tua o te \u0101rai, haere, haere, e haere atu r\u0101, e Eru, e k\u0101 rakatira o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, Ng\u0101ti Te Ata, Ng\u0101ti M\u0101hanga, Ng\u0101ti P\u016Bkenga o Tainui waka. \u0100, n\u014D reira e hoa, e moe mai, moe mai, moe mai! \u0100, t\u0113nei te mihi e huri noa i Te Whare maire nei ka mihi ki k\u0101 mema katoa. Ko T\u016Btehounuku Korako ahau, ko Kaiwhakahaere o Te Komiti Whiriwhiri Take M\u0101ori. Ko Aoraki Mauka e t\u016B mai ake kei uta. E maringi mai i Te Awa o Waitaki r\u0101ua ko Waimakariri ki Te Tai o Mahanui. Ko Te Whare Mahanui hoki r\u0101ua o Te Whare o Wheke, kei te r\u0101paki o te raki whakaputa e t\u016B ana, hei an\u014D t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000053\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. Hail the winds of the north, south, east, and west, and the inland rock mass of the great heavenly Father standing firm yonder. Stand resolute eternally, gather, join, and unite! So acknowledgments to you esoteric pillars of our Father in heaven, but, more important, blessings to our great Father in heaven as all things good begin and end with Him. I therefore pay homage to the Provider of all things good. We recollect the dead who have departed to the spiritual realm, and so I say to all of you from every courtyard, tribe, and canoe, go forth upon the expansive pathway of Man to beyond the veil; depart, journey on, farewell! Go forth indeed friend Eru Thompson. Travel on indeed to the spiritual home lying there Eru; sleep, slumber and rest there! Sleep peacefully there upon your canoe. Paddle your canoe beyond the veil, depart, journey on, farewell Eru and esteemed ones of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, Ng\u0101ti Te Ata, Ng\u0101ti M\u0101hanga, and Ng\u0101ti Pukenga of Tainui canoe. So sleep my friend, slumber and rest. I greet you, all members throughout this House. I am T\u016Btehounuku Korako, chairman of the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. Mount Aoraki stands inland over there, and the rivers of Waitaki and Waimakariri flow from it into the sea of Mahanui. The House of Mahanui as well as that of Wheke stand to the north. My appreciation once again to us all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000054\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EI want to acknowledge the previous speakers. E mihi atu ki a koutou e Te R\u014Dp\u016B Reipa, e ng\u0101 mihi. [I acknowledge you the Labour Party. Well done.] Also to our M\u0101ori Party whanauka\u2014ng\u0101 mihi. I also want to reiterate and support the tautoko, the korero around this incredible journey of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Ki ahau ko Kai Tahu. I have been there, we have done this journey, and I know what you have gone through and what you are going through. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000055\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EI also want to acknowledge, because we have talked here and remembered your rangatira, Eru Thompson. Can I just tell you that 4 years ago I worked with Eru and he was an inspiration. We took a garden called Te P\u016Btake, a permanent M\u0101ori garden, to north-eastern France. Together we worked\u2014Eru, along with the company that he worked for, New Zealand Forests Ltd, along with Jean Joe and Matt T\u0101nui, as well. We took a taonga from the north\u2014a swamp kauri that was over 100,000 years old. Together with a piece of pounamu from the Arahura River, we set them in that garden in north-eastern France, where they remain and will always remain. To me that is significant because that is the journey of two\u2014the pounamu and the kauri. Together you go on that journey, remembering the journey of K\u0101i Tahu as well\u2014so kia ora. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000056\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EI do not want to repeat this fascinating journey to date, which these noble people have embarked on and continue to embark on. What I would like to do is acknowledge the work of where this waka will go shortly after the first reading. Today is my first speech in the House as the chairman of the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. I want to remind us all of the origins of this institution and the tikaka that it has established. I am also reminded of the very able and honourable chairs and members who have served on this very unique select committee throughout its history. Today I also want to mihi to my members on the 51st Parliament M\u0101ori Affairs Committee: our kaiwhakahaere Te Ururoa Flavell, the Hon Nanaia Mahuta, Rino Tirikatene, the honourable Metiria Turei, Pita Paraone, the Hon Chester Borrows, Marama Fox, and Jo Hayes. I say to you k\u0101 tikaka n\u014D t\u0101tou Te Iwi M\u0101ori\u2014our rights belong to the M\u0101ori people. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000057\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EWe are reminded that the Native Affairs Committee was founded in 1872 to consider the many petitions received from M\u0101ori. From the outset, all four M\u0101ori members of Parliament sat on the select committee. Much of what was considered was to do with M\u0101ori land. As M\u0101ori whenua required ratification in the House, many times most recommendations with significant implications were not successful. Still, many of the minor decisions were passed, and it was the one parliamentary institution that kept some faith in M\u0101ori MPs. Often they were jeered at and ridiculed, and they were also often unable to keep up with the complex debates in English. It was not until the years immediately post - World War II that the term \u201Cnative\u201D was replaced by \u201CM\u0101ori\u201D, and the select committee became known as the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee, as did the Government department. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000058\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EOf course, it has considered some of the nation\u2019s watershed bills over the 140 years, including land inquiries and commission reports, the Tohunga Suppression Act, the introduction of M\u0101ori committees, and, more recently, the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975, the Treaty of Waitangi (Fisheries Claims) Settlement Act, all of the Treaty legislation, the M\u0101ori Language Act, and the introduction of the M\u0101ori Television Service (Te Aratuku Whakaata Irirangi M\u0101ori) Act 2003, to name a few. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EA feature of the committee has been a general cross-party collegiality. I say that word again\u2014collegiality. That is based on shared M\u0101ori values and aspirations. During my tenure as chairman, I want to continue to preside over the open debate and discussion in a non-partisan fashion in order that this can continue to be characteristic of the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee, particularly personally. So kia ora to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. E piki mai, kake mai, h\u014Dmai te wairua. E mauria mai he whakaako ki te kaupapa nunui. N\u014D reira, e koutou r\u0101, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, e mihi atu ki a koutou katoa, kia ora.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000060\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003E[Climb up, come aboard, and give forth the spirit to me. Bring forth a teaching for this great policy, and so accolades and congratulations to you all. Thank you.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022 data-id=\u00229544a94aa94546f09427008629104286\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000061\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229544a94aa94546f09427008629104286\u0022\u003EDENISE ROCHE (Green):\u003C/span\u003E T\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Deputy Speaker. T\u0113n\u0101 koe e te Whare. Rau rangatira m\u0101, t\u0113nei te mihi ki a koutou i runga i te kaupapa o te r\u0101. T\u0113n\u0101 koutou ng\u0101 rangatira, ng\u0101 tangata o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. T\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa. I rise to speak to support Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill, which is before the House. Firstly, let me acknowledge all those who have been involved in the negotiations and settlement process of the bill before us today. I recognise that this bill is the culmination of hours and hours and hours of work. To the people of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, I pay tribute to them and to their kaum\u0101tua and kuia who have passed who have been involved in these claims over many, many years and have brought these claims to the House today. I also want to pay tribute and acknowledge Eru Thompson, who has joined his ancestors along the way. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000062\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EI acknowledge the deep feelings and loss that these iwi have suffered as a result of the wrongs that have been done to them by the Crown. I pay tribute to all those who have persisted in bringing this bill to the House in their quest for justice. They have done that over many generations. The Greens stand on a charter that recognises Te Tiriti o Waitangi as the founding document of this land of Aotearoa. One of our core principles is honouring and protecting the environment and another is a firm dedication to fairness, to peace, and to justice. This bill fits within our founding principles. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000063\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EFirstly, when I look at this settlement bill, I want to acknowledge the generosity of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. The synopsis of the settlement deed that was written by the Office of Treaty Settlements says: \u201CThe Crown acknowledges that for too long it failed to appropriately respond to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s claims for redress and justice.\u201D The apology that is in the settlement deed and in the bill itself records \u201Cthe Crown\u2019s profound regret for its breaches of the Treaty of Waitangi and its principles which resulted in the alienation of much of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s land by 1856. The Crown also expresses sorrow for its subsequent failure to protect lands which were reserved for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Through the apology and settlement the Crown seeks to atone for its wrongs and lift the burden of grievance for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki so the process of healing can begin.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000064\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EWhen I read the full, acknowledged history, it is apparent that, time after time, going right back to just after the Treaty was signed, the rangatira of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki have attempted to utilise the legal processes that the Crown developed to protect and retain their interests, but, inevitably, the power of the Crown has been stacked against them. This includes allowing the private sale of their lands without their involvement, and ignoring their shared customary ownership of large sections of land. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000065\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EAn example of that is the Crown\u2019s purchase in 1841 of the 110,000-acre area called Mahurangi and \u014Cmaha. In this documented case, the Crown dealt with other iwi on this purchase rather than Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, and it was not really until about 1866 that their interests were recognised by the Native Land Court for their rights within the Mahurangi reserves, and in 1873 for their rights at Mangatawhiri and T\u0101wharanui. Another example is the Crown\u2019s land purchases between 1848 and 1865 in the west Auckland and south Kaipara areas. Again, from the settlement deed, it says: \u201CThere is no evidence the Crown obtained Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki agreement in any of the 1848 negotiations for purchases of land in West Auckland and the Upper Waitemat\u0101 Harbour area. No reserves were retained in association with these transactions. The land alienated included k\u0101inga then occupied by Te Kawerau a Maki at Nihotupu \u2026 and Waik\u016Bmete \u2026, [and] significant historic places such as Te Kotuitanga at the Whau Portage, and w\u0101hi tapu at Pukeatua, Muri \u014D Hikurangi and T\u012Bt\u012Brangi.\u201D, and it goes on and on and on. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000066\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EI am grateful that the settlement deed is there as a historical record. There is no doubt that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki were deliberately and systematically alienated from their lands. It documents example after example of dodgy dealings by the Crown that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki have had to bear the consequences of. These include things like land areas being vastly underestimated, like the Hikurangi block, which was purchased by the Crown in 1853. That was estimated to be 12,000 acres and was later found to be 54,141 acres. There are other examples like the Crown\u2019s purchasing prices being low and the losses of around 100,000 acres in their heartland of west Auckland, which were bought by the Crown for about \u00A3950, which works out to be about 2 shillings an acre. There are other examples like the Crown never keeping its side of the deal to ensure that there would be benefits for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki with access to schools, medical care, and ongoing gratuities as a result of these land purchases. Those are only some of the examples. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000067\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EI guess the swindles\u2014that is, I guess, what we have to call them\u2014were compounded by the inability for Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki to get justice over the last 150 years or more. Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki were not consulted about the creation of the Native Land Court. They were not represented in Parliament during the creation of the Native Lands Acts in 1862 and 1865. Their overlapping interests with other iwi were not recognised in Native Land Court cases time and time again. There was also the vesting of lands in individuals by the Native Land Court, so breaking down the collective ownership of land, which, of course, made it easier for iwi to be alienated from that whenua. In the 1920s land was appropriated by the Crown through the Public Works Act and then, of course, through private sales, as well as the Government Acts that continued right through until the mid-1900s. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000068\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EThe impact on the generations of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki has been severe. The alienation from their land means that they have suffered. The settlement records the socio-economic impacts and outlines basically the history of their diaspora. It goes into some detail about how that occurred in area after area, place after place, throughout their marvellous rohe. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000069\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EWhen I look at the losses, I am astounded at the generosity of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. There is no way on earth that this settlement will ever compensate them. That is acknowledged in the apology, in the bill, and in the deed of settlement. The bill does include the Crown\u2019s apology, and we do not underestimate that as well. The settlement itself offers the apology, the cultural redress, and the financial and commercial redress, but when you look at it, essentially it is only nine sites being vested in the iwi, totalling 31 hectares. The financial redress of $6.5 million and $300,000 for establishing a living marae for these iwi is a really big start in their future healing and economic development. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000070\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EBut although we acknowledge the journey that it has taken to get this bill to this House, we do, as Greens, have to state for the record that we never believe that these Treaty bills are full and final settlements. We cannot acknowledge that they are because they are not full settlements, and they are not final because we do not know now how the impact of those historical grievances from before 1992 will impact on future generations. When you consider that this Government bailed out South Canterbury Finance and paid it far, far more than this iwi have received in their settlement, then you see that there is still unfairness occurring. Having said that, we agree that this is a time to celebrate the settlement and future progress towards healing for these iwi, so we commend this bill to the House. We look forward to hearing more about the issues during the select committee process, and we will be supporting the bill. T\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022 data-id=\u00222c8f55a0f58f47f8b4815ac7c4ba2b26\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000071\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222c8f55a0f58f47f8b4815ac7c4ba2b26\u0022\u003EPITA PARAONE (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Deputy Speaker. Ng\u0101 mihi hoki ki a koe n\u0101 te mea, i tae atu koe ki te taumata i Te W\u2019are, me koutou \u014D hoa, ar\u0101, ko David Carter, Lindsay Tisch, \u0101, me t\u014D t\u0101tou hoa a Trevor Mallard. N\u0101 reira, ng\u0101 mihi hoki ki a koe n\u0101 te mea ko t\u0113nei te w\u0101 tuatahi i muri mai i taku ngarotanga i roto i ng\u0101 koraha o Ng\u0101ti Hine. Ka hoki mai i muri mai i ng\u0101 tau e ono. N\u0101 reira t\u0113n\u0101 koe, t\u0113n\u0101 koe, t\u0113n\u0101 hoki t\u0101tou o Te W\u2019are. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000072\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EN\u0101 reira e Te Kai\u2019hakaw\u0101, ka hoki au ki te kaupapa o Te W\u2019are i t\u0113nei w\u0101, ko te mea tuatahi, hoki atu ki a koutou, ng\u0101 uri, ar\u0101, ko Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, nau mai, haere mai. P\u012Bkautia mai ng\u0101 mate kei waenganui i a koutou, \u0101, kei te t\u016Bhonohono ng\u0101 mate kei waenganui i a m\u0101tou o Te W\u2019are nei. N\u0101 reira e tika ana, kei te tautoko ng\u0101 mihi i mihingia e waku tu\u0101kana, ki t\u0113n\u0101 o ng\u0101 rangatira a Eru. Kua tae k\u0113 te w\u0101 ka hoki atu koe, kei te hoki ki a Ia, ki te k\u0101inga t\u016Bturu m\u014D t\u0101tou m\u014D te tangata. T\u0113n\u0101 pea e tika ana, i t\u012Bmata i a ia tana h\u012Bkoitanga i mua i te urunga mai o t\u0113nei pire kei waenganui i a t\u0101tou i te r\u0101 nei. T\u0113n\u0101 pea, ko te \u2019hakaaro ko a ia te utu. He tohu rangatira t\u0113n\u0101! N\u0101 reira, haere e Eru, haere, haere! E kore e mimiti te puna k\u014Drero m\u014Du! I rongo i a m\u0101tou \u014D mahi rangatira kia kawe atu t\u0113nei pire ki mua i a t\u0101tou i te r\u0101 nei. N\u0101 reira e Eru, haere, haere, hoki atu! \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000073\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EWaihotia ng\u0101 k\u014Drero m\u0101 koutou te hunga wairua, kua hoki mai ki a t\u0101tou te hunga ora n\u0101 reira t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, \u0101, kia ora mai an\u014D t\u0101tou. \u0100, ko t\u0113nei te t\u016B m\u014D Te R\u014Dp\u016B Aotearoa Tuatahi ki te \u2018hakatakoto \u014D m\u0101tou whakaaro m\u014D te pire nei, ar\u0101, Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill. N\u014D reira, koutou ng\u0101 uri i heke mai o ng\u0101 t\u016Bpuna, ar\u0101, Tawhiakiterangi, e m\u014Dhiotia e t\u0101tou ko Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, ko Mana, ko Te Au o Te Whenua, ko K\u014Dwhatu ki Te Uru, \u0101, me Tuiau. Te \u0101huatanga o t\u0113nei pire kia \u2018hakatikatika ng\u0101 mahi h\u0113, ng\u0101 mahi kikino o Te Karauna ki a koutou.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000074\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, and congratulations to you too because you have reached the pinnacle in the House with your colleagues, David Carter, Lindsay Tisch, and our friend Trevor Mallard. Therefore acknowledgments to you also, as this is the first time back since my disappearance into the barren lands of Ng\u0101ti Hine. I am back after 6 years. So greetings and accolades to you and to us all as well of the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000075\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003ETherefore I go back to the matter before the House at this point in time, and I go back to you, first the descendants, in other words you Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, welcome, welcome. Bring forth the deaths that are in your midst and allow them to link up with the deaths among us here in Parliament House. Therefore it is appropriate that I endorse the tributes accorded by my elder colleagues to that esteemed elder, Eru. The time has arrived for you to return to Him, to the real home for the people. Perhaps it is fitting that he began his journey before this bill came into our midst to day. There is that thought that he might just be the sacrifice. That indeed is seen to be sign of greatness! So farewell Eru, depart, goodbye! The pool of stories about will never run dry. We heard of your fine work in getting this bill before us today. Therefore Eru, farewell, depart, take your leave from us, return!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000076\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EI leave my tributes about you the deceased there and return to us the living, so congratulations and well done to you collectively. My appreciation to us once again. I stand on behalf of New Zealand First to present our views on this bill, the Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill. Therefore to you the descendants of Tawhiakiterangi, known by us as Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, Mana, Te Au o Te Whenua, K\u014Dwhatu ki Te Uru, and Te Tuiau, this bill is about the Crown rectifying its wrongful doings and actions against you.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000077\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EI rise to take a call on behalf of New Zealand First in this, the first reading of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill. Since I was last in this House I have had the opportunity to witness a number of such bills enacted, which have contributed to bringing this whole process of settlement of claims to the Waitangi Tribunal towards some finality for both iwi and our nation. This bill is part of that process. However, many of those iwi who have settled to date have among their membership a number who still refuse to accept that the terms of settlement have been fair. Previous speakers so far have made references to that unfairness. I am not suggesting that this is the case in this circumstance. Certainly, you have confirmed this by your comment in regard to the level of support from the iwi of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki of this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000078\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EWe will be supporting this bill being referred to the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee to allow for submissions from affected persons, supportive or otherwise. As I understand it, as with most other settlement bills, this bill will settle all historical claims\u2014in this case from Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2014resulting from acts and omissions by the Crown prior to 21 September 1992. The package that forms this settlement includes an agreed historical account, Crown acknowledgment and apology, cultural redress, financial redress, and commercial redress. I note that this bill has come to this House as a result of direct negotiations. A proposal was made to them in 2009 that they should take this course. We, in New Zealand First, do not deny any claimant group to opt for direct negotiations, particularly in terms of reaching a speedy settlement. However, we do wonder how much is lost in terms of detailing the extent of the acts and omissions of the Crown and their impact on the respective iwi. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000079\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EWhen looking at the historical background to this claim, one is somewhat surprised that the Crown had very little contact with Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki immediately post - signing of the Treaty. Prior to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, land transactions between other iwi and Europeans saw the alienation of lands belonging to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Further, no evidence was found, after being investigated by the Land Claims Commission of the time, that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki rangatira were ever involved in this alienation of what was their lands. Their interests were never considered, yet settlers were granted certain lands, and any surplus of land was retained by the Crown. The purchase of the Mahurangi and \u014Cmaha lands in 1841 by the Crown included Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki interests, and yet they were not consulted. Their customary rights were never investigated, nor was adequate compensation provided when Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s interests became known. One can only imagine if that sort of activity were to take place in this day and age. Anyway, why was this? Perhaps it might have become known if this claim had gone to a hearing, rather than into direct negotiation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000080\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EAs I continue to read the historical background to this claim, it is quite plain that the Crown abdicated its responsibilities to the iwi. Nowhere was this exemplified more than in the 1844-55 period, when the Crown waived its right of pre-emption, which allowed for private individuals to negotiate with M\u0101ori, and failed to apply the regulations it had established to protect M\u0101ori in these circumstances. The next decade was no better for this iwi, as the Crown undertook a programme of acquisition that saw much of their land interests alienated from them. Between 1920 and 1951 the iwi lost their remaining interests in Kopironui and Puketapu blocks to the Crown by way of compulsory purchase under the Public Works Act. To say that this iwi was left virtually landless would be an understatement. In reality, the only title they hold is to the inaccessible title and another area. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000081\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EPart of this settlement includes payment of $300,000 towards a marae. Can I suggest to this House that in this day and age $300,000 would probably meet the cost of one toilet. I really believe that this is some insult\u2014not denying the intention of the Crown\u2014to provide only this level of payment. However, we support this bill going to the select committee and, hopefully, the people of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki will take that opportunity. N\u0101 reira e t\u0101tou m\u0101, huri noa ki t\u0113nei o t\u0101tou W\u2019are, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, kia ora mai an\u014D t\u0101tou. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000082\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003E[Therefore, to every one of us throughout this House, my congratulations, salutations and thanks once again.] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u00229ad0c77106284698b1b9422d74e2c837\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000083\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229ad0c77106284698b1b9422d74e2c837\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: The Hon David Cunliffe\u20145 minutes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022 data-id=\u002267dcc63d367444c1ba1cc5a967a20aaa\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000084\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002267dcc63d367444c1ba1cc5a967a20aaa\u0022\u003EHon DAVID CUNLIFFE (Labour\u2014New Lynn):\u003C/span\u003E T\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa, rangatira m\u0101, ng\u0101 whaea, ng\u0101 mana o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Mihi mai, karanga mai, aroha mai. Ng\u0101 mate, ng\u0101 whare, ng\u0101 mana whenua, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa. Te p\u014D, ka awatea, whiti ao, whiti ao, whitiwhiti ao. R\u0101tau ki a r\u0101tau, t\u0101tau ki a t\u0101tau.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000085\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E[Greetings to you all, leaders, aunties, and mandated ones of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, greetings. We accept your acknowledgments, calls and fond greetings. We pay a tribute to the deaths and salute the meeting houses and mandated ones; accolades, salutations and commendations to you all. Night gives way to daylight, then the sun rises to beckon in the dawn, and then a very, very enlightened world. Allow the dead to remain among the dead while we the living get on with the business that affect us.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000086\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003EWe remember today those who have gone before and we recognise the spirits of those who join us in this House. It is a tragedy that Te Kawerau and all of us have lost Eru Thompson in just the last few days, and we feel his presence hanging here in this House as his dream of the settlement of this claim is now realised. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003EI wish to acknowledge others who have worked so hard for this settlement: Te W\u0101rena Taua, H\u0101riata Ewe, Rewi Spraggon. I want to acknowledge Sir Bob Harvey and Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse. I want to acknowledge my west Auckland Labour colleagues: Phil Twyford, who will shortly speak; his predecessor, Chris Carter, MP for Te Atat\u016B; Lynne Pillay, MP for Waitakere; Carmel Sepuloni; and, of course, the Rt Hon Jonathan Hunt. Through our Labour wh\u0101nui we mihi to you, we recognise you, we celebrate your mana whenua today through this albeit modest but entirely appropriate and historic settlement of redress and an apology by the Crown for its acts and omissions that have contributed to the situation of Te Kawerau today. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003ETe Kawerau \u0101 Maki is dear to our hearts, but it is an iwi that has no marae\u2014not even its own urup\u0101 in which to bury its dead. West Auckland, Te H\u0113nga, the Waitakeres are resonant of the history of this iwi\u2014the caves at Karekare, where its people sheltered from the raiding parties of the north. Those hills bear testimony to the spirits of Te Kawerau. For all of what has been done wrong\u2014the selling of land without consultation, the individualisation of collective title, dispossession, the alienation, the ignorance of the Crown, and the wilful neglect of mana whenua over the years\u2014let us feel the pain of the iwi for this loss in acknowledging the depths of the Crown\u2019s apology for it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000089\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003EThe Crown is making redress by way of cultural recognition, by way of the nine sites transferred\u2014as is appropriate\u2014to Te Kawerau, and by way of financial redress, principally through 86 percent of the Riverhead Forest being vested in a $6.5 million transfer, and various other sites. It is important in that it gives an asset that will produce a rental and thus provide some self-sufficiency. The financial contribution to the marae is modest, as other speakers have said, and we will stand alongside Te Kawerau and mihi to them as they establish their home marae. I look forward to the day when we can join them in celebration to enter it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000090\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003EThis is a historic day. Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki is a much-loved part of the Waitakere community. I commend the Crown for its apology today, and I commend and celebrate this Aotearoa New Zealand where we lead the world in providing, albeit belated, cultural redress and the restoration of a mana relationship between the Crown and, ultimately, all iwi.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u00225a397c6ecfb54f1dbc08a66d0cfe9765\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000091\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225a397c6ecfb54f1dbc08a66d0cfe9765\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I call Phil Twyford\u20145 minutes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022 data-id=\u00228f3c655868ef4ccfa0040428b1bb2237\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000092\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00228f3c655868ef4ccfa0040428b1bb2237\u0022\u003EPHIL TWYFORD (Labour\u2014Te Atat\u016B):\u003C/span\u003E Ka tangi te t\u012Bt\u012B, ka tangi te k\u0101k\u0101, ka tangi hoki ahau, t\u012Bhei mauri ora! Kua hinga te t\u014Dtara i Te Waonui-a-T\u0101ne, te kaum\u0101tua n\u014D te iwi o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, ar\u0101, ko Matua Eru Thompson. Moe mai r\u0101 e te rangatira, hoki atu koe ki \u014D m\u0101tua t\u012Bpuna, moe mai r\u0101, moe mai r\u0101!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000093\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E[The sooty shearwater cries, the parrot cries, and I cry too. Behold the breath of life! Uncle Eru Thompson, the elder of the tribe of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, alas the podocarpus of the Great Forest of T\u0101ne Mahuta, has fallen indeed. Oh revered one, slumber there, return to your forebears as well, sleep and rest there.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000094\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI want to add my voice to the contributions of colleagues already made in this debate as to the condolences of this House to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki for the loss of Eru Thompson. As the member of Parliament for Te Atat\u016B in west Auckland, it has been my pleasure to get to know Mr Thompson a little bit. The iwi\u2019s settlement was, of course, important to him, and today it is with some sadness that we debate this first reading of the Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill, with his loss so fresh in our minds.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000095\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003ELabour supports this bill, as we do the broad Treaty of Waitangi reconciliation of historical breaches by the Crown to M\u0101ori. It is great to see the Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki settlement arrive at this point today. I want to acknowledge the commitment, the hard work, and the leadership from both the iwi and the Crown that went into achieving this agreement. Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s experience of colonisation and land loss is not the biggest financially or geographically, it is not the most dramatic or even the most colourful such story in our country\u2019s modern history, yet it is as poignant as any. This iwi, whose customary interests stretch from the T\u0101maki isthmus through west Auckland to the upper Waitemat\u0101 into the North Shore, and up to the Kaipara and Mahurangi, were, through the Crown\u2019s actions and sins of omission, rendered landless to the extent that today they are left without even a marae or an urup\u0101 on their own land. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000096\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EIt goes without saying that this state of affairs has had devastating consequences for the well-being of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. I want to quote from the deed of settlement the Crown\u2019s acknowledgment of the impact this experience has had on Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki: \u201CThe Crown\u2019s failure to ensure that Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki were left with sufficient land for their present and future needs was a breach of the Treaty of Waitangi and its principles. This hindered the social, economic, and cultural development of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki as a tribe, and undermined the ability of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki to protect and manage their taonga and their w\u0101hi tapu, and to maintain spiritual connections to their lands. The Crown further acknowledges that this has severely impacted on the well-being of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki today.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000097\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EColleagues have touched on the history of land alienation. In 1841 the Crown investigated pre-Treaty purchases, but failed to properly consider Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s interests. It granted settlers certain lands, according to the historical record, and retained a surplus for itself\u2014for the Crown\u2014of 22,000 acres. Shortly afterwards the Crown purchased an extensive area called Mahurangi and \u014Cmaha without consulting Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. It failed to set aside reserves and failed to provide compensation, and this pattern was repeated throughout the 19th century. In the 20th century the Crown acquired the remaining remnants of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki interests through compulsory purchase under the Public Works Act. So it is great to see in this settlement package both cultural redress and commercial and financial redress. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000098\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI want to finish by noting the inclusion in the cultural redress provisions of the original Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki names that will become official geographic names of some of the natural features in west Auckland, like Te Wai-o-Pareira - Henderson Creek, which runs through my electorate. It is not the most important part of the package, but it is still an important daily reminder of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s mana whenua and as guardians of our place. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u0022ed4c110cd8ac42f7b084ef762e553735\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000099\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ed4c110cd8ac42f7b084ef762e553735\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I call Louisa Wall\u20145 minutes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022b4a597dd-ed8b-42b8-975b-40c6e0cdaee1\u0022 data-id=\u00226bb792ae1cb64b63be8d5e9214befbb9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000100\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b4a597dd-ed8b-42b8-975b-40c6e0cdaee1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226bb792ae1cb64b63be8d5e9214befbb9\u0022\u003ELOUISA WALL (Labour\u2014Manurewa):\u003C/span\u003E Kia ora, Mr Assistant Speaker. E ng\u0101 mana, e ng\u0101 reo, rau rangatira m\u0101, ng\u0101 uri o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa. Ng\u0101 mihi aroha ki te wh\u0101nau o te rangatira o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, ko Eru Thompson. Moe mai, moe mai, moe mai e te rangatira.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000101\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b4a597dd-ed8b-42b8-975b-40c6e0cdaee1\u0022\u003E[To the authorities, voices, leaders of a hundred fold and descendants of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, greetings, acknowledgments, and accolades to you all, and loving tributes to the family of the leader of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Rest Eru Thompson, slumber, and sleep on.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000102\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b4a597dd-ed8b-42b8-975b-40c6e0cdaee1\u0022\u003EI want to acknowledge all the previous speakers. I think we have sufficiently canvassed the history of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s claim, and I do want to take some liberty and talk about matua Eru Thompson, whom I have known in my role as the member of Parliament for Manurewa but also as a member of the Counties Manukau District Health Board. I want to acknowledge Eru\u2019s leadership as a cultural adviser, as a kaum\u0101tua, and as, I believe, a taonga not only of the west but of the south in brokering relationships between Waitakere City Council, the Manurewa local board, the Manurewa Marae, and a lot of tauiwi organisations. I want to mihi to Eru because I believe he has provided the guidance to ensure that the status of M\u0101ori as tangata whenua, as mana whenua, has been represented in such forums as citizenship ceremonies, blessings for Manurewa netball courts, and in many different forums. So I grieve, like a lot of the wh\u0101nau who are here today, and I mihi to you because I know you will be heading home after this to Makaurau Marae, where Eru will lie in state until his burial on Saturday. I will be there, representing our Labour wh\u0101nau. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000103\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b4a597dd-ed8b-42b8-975b-40c6e0cdaee1\u0022\u003ESo I want to acknowledge everybody who has spoken today, because I think there is a lot of aroha in the House today. I also want to acknowledge the history of this claim. Wai 470 was lodged in July 1994 by H\u0101riata Ewe and Te W\u0101rena Taua on behalf of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Days like today happen because of the resilience, because of the persistence, and because of the fortitude of our ancestors, of our rangatira, who on behalf of our hap\u016B and iwi go through processes that eventuate in pieces of legislation that will rightfully acknowledge Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki as one of the mana whenua in T\u0101maki-maukau-rau. It is interesting to look at how we came to this place within the context of the T\u0101maki Makaurau settlement process, which without Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, who were joined by Ng\u0101ti Te Ata, Ng\u0101i Tai ki T\u0101maki, Marut\u016Bahu, Te Taou, and the Hauraki M\u0101ori Trust board, would have allowed for Ng\u0101ti Wh\u0101tua and the Ng\u0101ti Wh\u0101tua \u014Crakei claim to be the only mana whenua of T\u0101maki-makau-rau. So I mihi to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki for fighting always for their right to be recognised as an iwi across T\u0101maki-makau-rau. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000104\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b4a597dd-ed8b-42b8-975b-40c6e0cdaee1\u0022\u003EI also want to mihi to the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations because I think when he entered this portfolio, the T\u0101maki Makaurau settlement was in a place where I think we were stuck, but what has happened through the process is the recognition of T\u0101maki-makau-rau\u2019s full history and the mana whenua of all our iwi across T\u0101maki-makau-rau. I want to mihi to Nuk Korako, who is the new chair of the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. I have served on the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee and I have to say it is a privilege to sit on the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000105\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b4a597dd-ed8b-42b8-975b-40c6e0cdaee1\u0022\u003EThe process that we are involved in is about our truth and reconciliation, it is about acknowledging the history, and it is also about acknowledging, I believe, the incredible generosity of our iwi to enable us as a country to get to this point in time. There will be discussions at the select committee about the quantum because when we look at the land that was taken and the loss of our language and culture, this settlement is only a fraction of the compensation, I believe, that our hap\u016B and iwi deserve. N\u014D reira, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022 data-id=\u00224678cdd4d8034111a3b017213f781729\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000106\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224678cdd4d8034111a3b017213f781729\u0022\u003EJOANNE HAYES (National):\u003C/span\u003E E koro m\u0101, e kui m\u0101, e rau rangatira m\u0101 o Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou. [Acknowledgments to you the elderly men and womenfolk, and leaders of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000107\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EI want to stand here and pay my respects to Eru Thompson, the rangatira of Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. As previous speakers have said and have voiced it so eloquently, he was one who worked hard to advance Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki\u2019s settlement claims process. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000108\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EI am pleased to stand to take the last call to support the traverse of this bill through the House, beginning with this first reading. I acknowledge that although the Crown can never fully compensate Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki for the wrongs of the past, this settlement enables Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki to focus on developing a strong future culturally and economically. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000109\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EAs previous speakers have said, Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki descends from the youngest son of the ancestor Maki, named T\u0101whi\u0101kiterangi, who took the name Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki. Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki hold customary interests in the regions of T\u0101maki, or Auckland; Hikurangi, or west Auckland; the Waitakere Ranges; lands in the upper Waitemat\u0101 Harbour; the North Shore; the Mahurangi coast; and south Kaipara. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000110\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EI look forward to the select committee hearing, to hearing the submissions on this bill and to returning it to the House at a later stage. Before I close I want to acknowledge the hard work of the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations, the Hon Chris Finlayson, and members of the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee, whom I know will continue to work hard collegially to get this bill to its final stages. In closing, I commend Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000111\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EBill read a first time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000112\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EBill referred to the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000113\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EWaiata\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000114\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00224d816f3c1d7c4199b471077c14fcff2f\u0022\u003ETe Hiku Claims Settlement Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000115\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00220b18f65785144f51b3b89157a4cfc70c\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022 data-id=\u0022ecb301fe95e84fb1b50a1a064bb21fe3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000116\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ecb301fe95e84fb1b50a1a064bb21fe3\u0022\u003EHon CHRISTOPHER FINLAYSON (Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Te Hiku Claims Settlement Bill be now read a first time. I nominate the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee to consider the bill. To my friends from Te Hiku o Te Ika\u2014the tail of the fish\u2014welcome to this House. It is a real pleasure to welcome you at Parliament today in repayment of the manaakitanga that you have extended to me over many years in my visits to your rohe. Your journey to settlement has, of course, been much longer than that, and I have really been honoured to play a part in these final stages.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000117\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003ECan I begin by acknowledging the new member of Parliament for Te Tai Tokerau, Kelvin Davis. I thank him very much for being here today, notwithstanding the family bereavement that he has suffered, and on behalf of the Government I extend our sympathy to his wife. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000118\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003ECan I also acknowledge in the gallery today ambassador Shane Jones. It is great to see him back here. I want to acknowledge the great help that he provided to me over a number of years in the north. I do not think we would have got to this stage without a few quiet chats with \u201CHis Excellency\u201D the ambassador from time to time. So it is great to see him back here.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000119\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EAs we embark together on the next phase of the relationship between Te Hiku iwi and the Crown, I certainly hope that our guests feel welcome here today. When your ancestors and the Crown signed the Treaty in Kait\u0101ia in April 1840, Panak\u0101reao famously stated that the shadow of the land could go to the Queen, with the substance remaining with M\u0101ori. As we know, by the following year he was very concerned that the Crown would have the substance of the land, and so, sadly, it came to pass.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000120\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003ETe Hiku leaders, however, have always been vigilant in monitoring the Treaty relationship, and in taking action when required. They have a long history of petitioning, challenging, and protesting against injustice. The abiding image that we all have is that of Dame Whina Cooper leading the land march from Te H\u0101pua. It is something all New Zealanders are familiar with. It signifies a turning point in our history. So I want to acknowledge the work of her eldest son, Joseph (Hohepa) Cooper, that generous and kind rangatira who has worked to guide Te Rarawa though negotiations over the last 14 years.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000121\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EEvery step of this journey has been made possible by the work of those who came before us. I have made the following statement to Te Hiku iwi in the past, but I want to it say again today so that it is written into the parliamentary record that we are, together in this House, continuing on a pathway to justice that was first laid by Matiu Rata, one of the many great leaders who have hailed from the far north. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Waitangi Tribunal, and next year it will be 40 years since that tribunal was established. This contribution to the Treaty settlement framework is still so very important today. Mr Rata spent many years in this House working on behalf of all M\u0101ori and as an advocate for the people of Te Hiku o Te Ika. It is really a great honour to stand in this House today and acknowledge his work for his nation. His legacy lives on in the spirit of chieftainship that remains very strong in this most northerly part of our land.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000122\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003ENegotiating a settlement makes the Crown recognise the harms inflicted on the people of Te Hiku and the hurt that has been carried over many generations. I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge that the people of Te Hiku have endured some truly hard times as a result of the Crown\u2019s breaches of the Treaty. The collective actions and omissions of the Crown left all Te Hiku iwi with insufficient land for their needs, undermined their economy, and frayed the social fabric of the far north. This caused many to leave their rohe, and left those who stayed with too few opportunities. It impacted on the ability of Te Hiku whanau, hap\u016B, and iwi to pass on language, tikanga, and m\u0101tauranga to younger generations.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000123\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EAs we enter into the final stage of settling their grievances, I want again to acknowledge the injustices of the large-scale loss of the best and most productive lands; the Crown\u2019s surplus land policy; the impact of land laws in the 19th and 20th centuries, which diminished tribal authority; and the resultant hardship that permeated through this area of our country. I want also to acknowledge each and every member of Te Aupouri, Te Rarawa, Ng\u0101ti Kuri, and Ng\u0101iTakoto\u2014past, present, and future. The Crown\u2019s breaches have affected, and will affect, all members of the iwi of Te Hiku. This has been a journey towards redressing those wrongs. It has been a journey towards the meaningful recognition by the Crown of the mana of Te Aupouri, the mana of Te Rarawa, the mana of Ng\u0101iTakoto, and that of Ng\u0101ti Kuri.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000124\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EToday, with the reading of the settlement legislation, we take the first stage in the final part of the journey. We walk on this path together, in acknowledgment of our shared history, and we move forward together toward our shared future. This bill will give legislative effect to the agreements that have been breached between the Crown and Te Aupouri, Te Rarawa, Ng\u0101iTakoto, and Ng\u0101ti Kuri.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000125\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EI want to take some time today to acknowledge those who have been instrumental in those four settlements. I look to those who led the iwi negotiating teams over the last 14 years, and I apologise if I inadvertently omit the names of some who should be mentioned. But I particularly want to mention the late Matiu \u012Ahaka, George W\u012Btana, Winiata Brown, Raymond Subritzky, Gloria Herbert, Haami Piripi, Paul White, Rangitane Marsden, and Harry Burkhardt. Thank you very much for the huge contribution you have made. You only have to mention those names to see that the future of the north is in very, very good hands. They have been ably supported by many, many others during this time. Acting as the interface between the Crown table and the people is no easy task. Negotiating these settlements has really been a test of leadership, of resilience, and of endurance. We here in this House know the importance of representing constituents, and my colleagues and I have been very impressed by the way these great leaders have always had the interests of their people at the forefront of their strategy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000126\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EThe package will be examined in great detail by the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. It is so important that I mention some of the cultural redress\u2014for example, the leaping place of spirits, Te Rerenga Wairua, will be returned to M\u0101ori ownership, an event that is hugely significant. The important connection Te Hiku have with Te Oneroa-a-T\u014Dhe as a place of custom, spirituality, and sustenance is recognised in this settlement, and I am really excited to see the establishment of a unique and meaningful governance arrangement for that most important part of New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000127\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EThere is a lot more that I could say because this is a piece of legislation that brings together four settlements. Ng\u0101ti Kahu are not ignored; their day, I hope, will come, but in the meantime adequate safeguards are provided for them. It is so good to have the representatives of these great iwi here today; I acknowledge them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000128\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003ECan I conclude by acknowledging Pat Snedden for his great work over many years as my negotiator. He did a fine job. I am sure he will be watching this debate today with great interest, and we send him our best wishes. I particularly want to acknowledge the Office of Treaty Settlements staff. I never normally mention individuals, but it would be remiss of me were I not to mention Maureen Hickey, who has been working on this for so many years, and is utterly and completely dedicated to the task at hand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000129\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002241146229-4d11-415b-a4ac-f4e2b923e95d\u0022\u003EWith those comments, as I say, it is almost an injustice to say so little about such an important settlement. I commend the bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022 data-id=\u00220204a479ca424b7c8d4138febd478c14\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000130\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220204a479ca424b7c8d4138febd478c14\u0022\u003EKELVIN DAVIS (Labour\u2014Te Tai Tokerau):\u003C/span\u003E Ko Ng\u0101ti Kuri, Te Aupouri kia kotahi mai t\u0101tou katoa mai i Te Rarawa. Ng\u0101i Takoto, Ng\u0101ti Kahu kia kaha mai r\u0101. \u0100whinatia e t\u0101tou ng\u0101 uri o Muriwhenua kia whiwhi ai i ng\u0101 taonga nei o ng\u0101 t\u016Bpuna. Mr Speaker, ko \u0113n\u0101 ng\u0101 r\u0101rangi kupu o t\u0113tahi waiata e p\u0101 ana ki t\u0113r\u0101 w\u0101hanga o te motu, ar\u0101, ko Te Hiku. E tika ana kia mahuetia aua kupu i te mea, e akiaki ana i ng\u0101 iwi kia kaha ai, kia whakakotahi ai, kia whiwhi ai i ng\u0101 uri, i ng\u0101 taonga o ng\u0101 t\u016Bpuna. N\u0101 reira, ka mihi ake ahau ki a koutou i tae ki raro i te tuanui o t\u0113nei Whare ki te whakarongo ki t\u0113nei, te p\u0101nuitanga tuatahi o t\u0113nei pire m\u014D Te Hiku. N\u0101 reira, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou \u014Dku tu\u0101kana, \u014Dku t\u0113ina, tu\u0101hine m\u0101, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000131\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E[Let us from Te Rarawa be united, Ng\u0101ti Kuri and Te Aupouri. Work hard to ensure this too Ng\u0101i Takoto and Ng\u0101ti Kahu. We must help our kin of Muriwhenua to receive these ancestral possessions for them. Those are some lines from that song pertaining to that part of the country, in other words Te Hiku. It is appropriate that those words are retained because they urge the tribes to be strong and to remain united to ensure that descendants receive possessions from their ancestors. So I pay a tribute to you collectively who have arrived here under the roof of this House to listen to this, the first reading of this bill about Te Hiku, and so my accolades to you collectively my elder and younger siblings, and sisters. Well done.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000132\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EI started off with the words of a song that is in fact sung at most schools up in the Te Hiku area. It urges the five tribes to be strong and to be unified so that they may reap the treasures and the benefits of their ancestors. I think it is just an appropriate way to begin the speeches for the Te Hiku claims. The five iwi up in Te Hiku have a rich, intertwined culture, history, and whakapapa. Much of that history is still alive and we live it every day up there. I have to state for the record that I am not from Te Rarawa, Ng\u0101iTakoto, Ng\u0101ti Kahu, Te Aupouri, or Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B. I am from Ng\u0101puhi. It is just a signal that we have shared whakapapa, because I descend from T\u014Dhe. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000133\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003ET\u014Dhe was our tupuna who lived up in Kapowairua. The story has it that he and his servant Ariki marched down Te Oneroa-a-T\u014Dhe, or Ninety Mile Beach, as he went in search of R\u0101ninikura, his girl, in his older years. His iwi implored him not to go because he was so old that they did not think he would make it back. He said to them: \u201CMehemea ka mate ahau kapohia taku wairua.\u201D [Should I die, grab up my spirit.]\u2014\u201CIf I should die, then grab my spirit as it passes by.\u201D Hence the name Kapowairua\u2014Spirits Bay. So he walked down Ninety Mile Beach and got to Ahipara and named it Wh\u0101r\u014D because \u201Cwh\u0101r\u014D\u201D means to measure with your arms. He asked his servant to measure how far the tide had gone down. He carried on, swam the Hokianga Harbour, got to a place called Baylys Beach, which is called R\u012Bpiro, and there he actually passed away. One of the stories of the naming of my hap\u016B of Ng\u0101ti Manu is because there, as he was dead, lying on the beach, seabirds ate his eyes. So that is my connection to Te Hiku, through whakapapa. As I say, many parts of the country might not realise how we are still immersed in our history and our whakapapa, and it is not something separate that happened a long time ago. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000134\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EOne of the stories that we tell up there is of a warrior from Te Aupouri. His name was Te Hout\u0101ewa. Apparently he was 7-foot tall, broad, had the longest stride on him, and, if you listen to Te Aupouri, he had a good sidestep and a fend. One of the things that he liked to do was to antagonise Te Rarawa down at the southern end of the beach. Apparently he could run the length of the beach in between the tides. He used to run down there and pinch a couple of kits of k\u016Bmara, put them under his arms, and run back, antagonising, teasing, and tormenting his pursuers. They could never catch him. I remember Shane Jones telling me that he believed that he was created in Te Hout\u0101ewa\u2019s image. Earlier this morning we listened to Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki and my colleague Peeni Henare said that the k\u016Bmara has got a lot to answer for in terms of creating tension between tribes, but also in terms of soothing the peace as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000135\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EAnyway, roll on 200 years, and one day there I am in the capital of Te Aupouri, a place called Te Kao, in the changing rooms of the rugby club, wearing the colours of Te Rarawa, about to go and do battle against Te Aupouri, our traditional foe. Our captain at the time, a young fellow\u2014everyone knows him; Gibbon Harrison\u2014is there extolling us to rise to great heights and to get out there and basically lay our bodies on the line for Te Rarawa against the old foe Te Aupouri. He got himself so worked up, and he said: \u201CLet\u2019s get out there and let\u2019s teach them not to steal our k\u016Bmara!\u201D. Well, we went out there and we got soundly thrashed. That is an example of how the deeds of our ancestors are not something separate. They are not something that happened years ago. Our ancestors still walk with us and we still carry them with us. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000136\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EI was at the signing up in Ng\u0101taki earlier, some months back now, where the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations, the Hon Chris Finlayson, acknowledged the misdeeds of the Crown and gave an apology, and it was quite lengthy. It was an extensive apology. It was actually very emotional listening to the extent of what was done, not just to Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B. Well, at that stage it was Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B , but what happened to Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B was the alienation, the disempowerment, and the disenfranchising that occurred to all the iwi up there. I am glad to see that we are here now acknowledging it and trying to make reparations and move forward. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000137\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EThere are five iwi up there, but, really, the main acknowledgments go to four. I was contacted by the negotiators from Ng\u0101ti Kahu. They asked me to read some stuff out on their behalf. I said to them, look, the process is that we will do the first reading and then we have got the select committee consideration. That is when people can come forward and lay out their views as to why they disagree or agree with the whole process. They said: \u201CYes, we know the process; we just don\u2019t have any faith in it.\u201D, and they asked whether I would please read out, just for the record, some of their objections. I have two documents that I will table after. Bear the indulgence, because this is a time for celebration, but I just have to acknowledge that Ng\u0101ti Kahu are not quite so happy. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000138\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EThey ask that Part 14 be removed from the bill. Part 14 refers to the Ng\u0101ti Kahu Accumulated Rentals Trust. They want it removed from the Te Hiku Claims Settlement Bill before it goes to its first reading. I received this on 18 July. That was not possible, so here I am now making this request on their behalf. They want to leave the Ng\u0101ti Kahu accumulated rentals from the Aup\u014Duri State Forest Crown forest licensed lands and the Crown Forestry Rental Trust. They spell out in some detail the prejudices they believe they have suffered. Like I say, I will not read it out now; I will table it for the record. They also object vehemently to the bill vesting some 12,000 hectares of land exclusively in other iwi. Whether you agree or disagree, I was requested by them just to state their objections for the record. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000139\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003EI am somebody who likes to see these claims settled so that we can move on, be positive, and ensure better outcomes for our people. Therefore, with that, I just acknowledge, again, everybody here. I would also like to thank the Minister for allowing his officials to brief me. I agree with what he says about Maureen Hickey. I tried to throw some curly questions at her; she had the answer for every one. So I just acknowledge Maureen. E \u014Dku whanaunga i takahia mai i Te Tuar\u0101 o Te Ika, mai i Te Hiku tae noa ki konei ki Te Upoko, huri rauna i Te Whare, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000140\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E[To all my relatives throughout the House who traversed the Back of the Fish from the Tail until you eventually arrived here at the Head, I doff my hat to you.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022 data-id=\u0022d0583821929f4eec96ff87080112b3b8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000141\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d0583821929f4eec96ff87080112b3b8\u0022\u003EMARAMA FOX (Co-Leader\u2014M\u0101ori Party):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koe e Te Mana Whakaw\u0101. \u014C t\u0101tou mate tuatini e takoto mai ai i runga i \u014D t\u0101tou marae maha, papa k\u0101inga, i roto i \u014D t\u0101tou whare, kua \u016Bhia r\u0101tou ki ng\u0101 taumata k\u014Drero e tika ana hei poroporoaki i a r\u0101tou, \u0101, otir\u0101, ki a koe e te parata Kelvin me t\u014D whanau, e tika me mihi atu ki a koe. \u0100, an\u014D n\u0101 kai te k\u0101inga \u0113tahi e takoto mai r\u0101 i runga i \u014D r\u0101tou marae. N\u0101 reira, e tika me poroporoaki ki a r\u0101tau katoa. N\u0101 reira, me k\u012B p\u0113nei, tukua r\u0101tau kia okioki i runga i t\u014D r\u0101tou moenga roa. T\u0113n\u0101 r\u0101 koutou m\u0101 kua wehe ki tua o te \u0101rai. Haere ki ng\u0101 ringa mahana o Te Atua. Haere atu r\u0101 ki te k\u0101inga \u014D t\u0101tou katoa. An\u014D n\u0101, ko t\u0101tou te hunga ora, te hunga t\u016Btuki i \u014D r\u0101tou n\u0101 wawata. T\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000142\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Speaker. To our many deceased lying there upon our numerous courtyards, settlements, and in our homes, eloquent and appropriate farewell tributes have been accorded to them and indeed to you fellow colleague Kelvin Davis and your family. It is apt that you are acknowledged. And, of course, there are some at home lying in state on their courtyards. Therefore it is proper that all of them are paid a farewell tribute. Allow them all to sleep their long sleep. Farewell to you who have gone beyond the divide. Go forth to the warmth of the Lord\u2019s arms and to the home for us all. And here we are once again, the living, the ones to fulfil their aspirations. Acknowledgments to us all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000143\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EI have to admit that as I have sat here today I have felt a little emotional about the things I have been listening to. I have to admit that it feels a little strange and a little foreign. I stand here as a young\u2014young, I will say that one more time\u2014new member of the House. I am facing you but our people are behind me. I want to acknowledge you\u2014kia ora r\u0101. Kia ora r\u0101, koutou e noho kai muri nei, kai te tiro atu ki mua kia kite koutou i ng\u0101 pouaka whakaata r\u0101. [Thank you, as well those of you sitting behind me, looking at those television sets ahead there.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000144\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EI have felt a little emotional as these things have been read because I acknowledge that although this process has taken some 30 years to arrive at this point, how many of our ancestors have lost their lives throughout the tribulation that has been impacted upon them? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000145\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EI want to pay tribute to those who began the journey here and those who have gone before us, those who started with the vision to begin this long process and who now live in the memory and the presence of their children who represent them here today. T\u0113n\u0101 koutou. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000146\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EThis day is my first in the House to fully feel the impact of the Treaty injustices from this side of the ledger, as a representative of Parliament. I am no longer looking on. All of us in this Chamber are now implicated in the harsh realities of the Treaty impacts that endure in the hearts and minds of our people. I need look no further than the first pages of the bill to see that tragic reality articulated in the text of the apology. I am going to read this\u2014i roto i Te Reo M\u0101ori koa: \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000147\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E\u201CTe whakap\u0101ha a Te Karauna ki ng\u0101 uri o Ng\u0101ti Kuri, ki ng\u0101 m\u0101tua t\u016Bpuna, ki a koutou kei konei i t\u0113nei r\u0101, ki \u0113r\u0101 k\u0101ore an\u014D kia wh\u0101nau mai. Koia t\u0113nei ko te whakap\u0101ha a Te Karauna. E whakatakoto here kore ana Te Karauna i t\u014Dna whakap\u0101ha m\u014D \u014Dna hapa, m\u014D t\u014Dna h\u0113, ki te kore \u014Dna i \u0101ta whakamana, whakarangatira hoki i a Ng\u0101ti Kuri. He \u0101huatanga m\u0101t\u0101pono kore t\u0113nei waihoki ka noho a Ng\u0101ti Kuri an\u014D, he kanohi kitea kore i roto i ng\u0101 k\u014Drero, i ng\u0101 whakapapa o te ahurea i Te Hiku o Te Ika.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000148\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E[The apology by the Crown to the descendants of Ng\u0101ti Kuri, the ancestors, those of you present here today, and those not yet born. This indeed is the Crown\u2019s apology. It sets out unreservedly the Crowns apology for its wrongdoings, failures, and lack of recognition and respect towards Ng\u0101ti Kuri. This aspect was not principled and, furthermore, Ng\u0101ti Kuri was without representation in the discussions about the cultural heritage of the far north.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000149\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EWhat does it do to the hearts of a people and the hopes of a people to be rendered invisible? How does a people cope with the cruelty of being unable to act as tangata kaitiaki over your own taonga, to be prevented from taking up your responsibility and your rights of kaitiakitanga over your w\u0101hi tapu? How do an iwi reconcile the conundrum of being tangata whenua without whenua, of coming from the very land that has been stripped away by the confounding effects of successive flawed land legislation? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000150\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EThese were acts of legislation stealth that robbed Ng\u0101ti Kuri of their rights to their traditional tikanga and rangatiratanga, having the effect of leaving them marginalised on their ancestral land. It is soul-destroying. It hits at the very heart of our nationhood to know that one partner to the Treaty, the Crown, acted in a way to the other, the iwi, that caused them to suffer the loss of tribal authority, of social cohesion, of traditional knowledge, and left them unable to develop economically. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000151\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EToday this bill starts off a new journey, but a journey that nevertheless must be grounded in the knowledge that Ng\u0101ti Kuri suffered significant population losses and that the people were found floundering in poverty, poor housing, and deep distress over successive generations as a direct result of Crown action. Te Aupouri, Ng\u0101ti Kahu, Ng\u0101ti Kuri, Te Rarawa, and Ng\u0101iTakoto will never forget. We in this House must never forget. We will be able to move forward together only if together we confront the atrocities of our past. In M\u0101ori legend this land forms the tail of the fish that M\u0101ui hauled up from the great depths of the ocean. Elders from Muriwhenua sometimes say that although the head of the fish is here in Wellington, it can go only where the tail will allow. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000152\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EI have been thinking about the wisdom of the philosopher Isaac Newton: \u201CIf I have seen further than others, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.\u201D In this cause there are many giants: Dame Whina Cooper\u2014whose korowai, worn in the Land March, is on loan to us here in Parliament and lies just down the hall in a glass case\u2014Matiu Rata, Dame Mira Szaszy, Merimeri Penfold, and too many others to mention, whose efforts have for ever etched their names in our collective memory. This moment is dedicated to all those who watch over us in spirit, who inspire and encourage us to seek further, to be bold and courageous for their mokopuna. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000153\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EThis bill gives effect to the covenants that have been reached between the Crown, Ng\u0101ti Kuri, Te Aup\u014Duri, Ng\u0101ti Takoto, and Te Rarawa. There are specifics pertinent to each iwi. These recognise the soul-crushing misfortune set upon them at the hands of the Crown. Other speakers have taken us through that trail of torture. We have heard about the corrupt intent of the Crown and private purchasing that alienated Ng\u0101ti Kuri from over 70 percent of their ancestral land by 1880. We acknowledge the injury caused to Te Aupouri as a direct result of the 1840 Taylor transaction, taking 60,000 acres of land through forced seizure. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000154\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EWe think of the harsh impact for generations of Ng\u0101iTakoto finding themselves a virtually landless people, having lost all interest in approximately 155,000 acres of ancestral land. For Te Rarawa the crime of the Crown forced upon Mar\u0101ea Te Awaroa Heke\u2014arrested, jailed, and never compensated for merely protecting the boundaries around her own hap\u016B lands. The kuia died before the court took the action it should have. To add insult to injury, the block was further subdivided, taken by the Crown as an esplanade for public use. I want to return to the actual text in this bill: \u201CM\u0101 roto atu i t\u0113nei whakaaturanga e whai ana Te Karauna i te huarahi hei whakatika i \u014Dna h\u0113 kua whakaae nei a ia ki aua h\u0113, otir\u0101, e taea ai i n\u0101ianei te whai i te huarahi o te whakatau hoahoa o te whakakotahi an\u014D.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000155\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E[Through this notification the Crown will have a process to follow to rectify its failings, which it has accepted, and will indeed make it possible now to settle totally and amicably.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000156\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EIn this House today, with the enduring impact of the settlement to come, the Crown seeks to begin the process of reconciliation. The Crown hopes that by recognising the impact and the injury of injustice we can begin a renewed and enduring relationship, an invigorated relationship, based on mutual dignity and respect. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000157\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EAs a nation we must look, eyes wide, upon the knowledge that the spiritual relationships of the people of Te Hiku, with their ancestral maunga, takiw\u0101, and awa, have been adversely affected. Te Hiku, our utmost respect is accorded to you and your leadership; to your wh\u0101nau, so willingly, so generously, so bravely in the process of settlement. Respect is accorded to your wh\u0101nau, your negotiators, and your people for incredible tenacity, endurance, and courage to get to this stage. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000158\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EN\u014D reira, \u014Dku pou, \u014Dku rahi, koutou e hui mai nei i roto i t\u0113nei Whare, koutou, \u014Dku hoa o te takiw\u0101 r\u0101, t\u0113nei te mihi atu ki a koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tau katoa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000159\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E[Therefore to you my pillars and greatness who have gathered here in this House and to my colleagues on that side, I acknowledge, commend and salute you and us all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022 data-id=\u0022dda56b02c6f74ef4a5bb9f969faa3da5\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000160\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022dda56b02c6f74ef4a5bb9f969faa3da5\u0022\u003EKELVIN DAVIS (Labour\u2014Te Tai Tokerau):\u003C/span\u003E I seek leave to table two letters from Te R\u016Bnanga-a-Iwi O Ng\u0101ti Kahu, outlining their concerns with the bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u00224fee43ce07e441bbbbc97b6f05983561\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000161\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224fee43ce07e441bbbbc97b6f05983561\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there any objection? There is no objection. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000162\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003EDocuments, by leave, laid on the Table of the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022 data-id=\u00227729974d6ab345438e73aa735cf621d1\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000163\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227729974d6ab345438e73aa735cf621d1\u0022\u003EPEENI HENARE (Labour\u2014T\u0101maki Makaurau):\u003C/span\u003E T\u0113n\u0101 koe. Reo M\u0101ori e kara. \u201CRuia, ruia, tahia, tahia, kia hemo ake te k\u0101koa, koa! Kia herea mai i te kawau korok\u012B, kia t\u0101taki mai i roto i te p\u016Bkoro koro, whaikoro! Te kuaka, he kuaka m\u0101rangaranga! Tahi manu i tau atu ki te t\u0101huna, tau atu, tau atu, tau atu!\u201D. Tihew\u0101 mauri ora e te Whare! K\u0101ti, ko M\u0101maru te waka, ko Parata te tangata o runga. Ka moe a Parata i a Kahutianui ka puta ko Ng\u0101ti Kahu i whakatauk\u012Btia: \u201CKo Maunga Taniwha te maunga, ko Tokerau te moana, ko M\u0101maru te waka, ko Parata te tangata.\u201D Ko Kurahaup\u014D te waka, ko P\u014Dhurihanga te tangata. Ka moe a T\u016Bwhakatere i a T\u016Bterangi\u0101tohia o Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B r\u0101ua ko T\u016Bp\u014Dia o Ng\u0101ti Kahu, ka puta a Ng\u0101i Takoto. I whakatauk\u012Btia: \u201CHe iti p\u012Boke tere ki waho o Rangaunu, he au t\u014Dna.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000164\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EKo M\u0101mari r\u0101ua ko Ng\u0101tokimatawhaorua ng\u0101 waka, \u0101, ko Nukutawhiti r\u0101ua ko Ruanui ng\u0101 t\u0101ngata o runga. Ka moe a Tarutaru i te ng\u0101t\u0101tara e puta mai ana i tana rua, i a Ruapounamu, ka puta ko Te Rarawa kai whare e! Ko M\u0101mari te Waka, ko Ruanui te tangata, n\u0101na ko ana mokopuna a Wh\u0113ru r\u0101ua ko Te Ikanui, \u0113, ko Te Aup\u014Duri, \u0113! Ko t\u014Dna whakatauk\u012B: \u201CKo Te Atua ki te rangi, ko Te Aup\u014Duri ki te whenua.\u201D Ko Kurahaup\u014D te waka, ko P\u014Dhurihanga te tangata. Ka moe a P\u014Dhurihanga i a Maieke, ka puta ko Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B, \u0113! Mai i Te T\u012Bheru o M\u0101taatua, tae noa ki Kapo Wairua, ko Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B Matakak\u0101, Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B Matamomoe, mai i a Muriwhenua, tam\u0101hine a P\u014Dhurihanga r\u0101ua ko Maieke, ka puta ko ng\u0101 uri kei ng\u0101 iwi e rima o Te Hiku o Te Ika, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000165\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EI mua mai i taku kuhunga mai ki Te Whare nei, ko aku p\u0101p\u0101 ko Hone Harawira r\u0101ua ko te H\u014Dnore Shane Jones ng\u0101 uri o \u0113nei iwi e k\u014Drerotia nei ki roto i t\u0113nei pire. Tae mai ki t\u0113nei w\u0101, ko au anake te mema o t\u0113nei Whare, e whakapapa atu ana ki te katoa o \u0113nei iwi. Ka puritia e au i aku whakapapa m\u014D te p\u0101nuitanga tuatoru o te pire nei. Ki reira au hora ai i taku p\u0101nga ki ng\u0101 t\u016Bpuna, n\u0101 r\u0101tau nei ng\u0101 ingoa kei runga i t\u0113nei pire. I tukuna ko m\u0101tou koutou, e whakatau ki roto i t\u0113nei Whare e \u014Dku rangatira, e \u014Dku tini whanaunga. Ahakoa kua w\u0101tea mai te nuinga o ng\u0101 t\u016Bru kei roto i t\u0113nei Whare, ka tukuna atu te reo aroha, te reo mihi ki a koutou, n\u0101, ko t\u014D koutou mokopuna t\u0113nei e mihi atu nei, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tau katoa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000166\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003E[Thank you. I will speak in the M\u0101ori language. \u201CScatter, scatter, sweep on, sweep on, let us not be plundered by our foe and be plundered! The rope has stretched out and fastened to the cormorant\u2019s throat from the sheath, let us rejoice! Moving along, move along, let us rejoice! Godwits rise up here, there, and fly off. One lands on the beach and others follow!\u201D. Behold the breath of life! Mamari is the canoe, Parata is the commander. Parata married Kahutianui and begat Ng\u0101ti Kahu, uttered in the proverb: \u201CMaunga Taniwha is the mountain, Tokerau is the sea, M\u0101mari is the canoe and Parata is the captain.\u201D Kurahaup\u014D is the canoe and P\u014Dhurihanga is the commander. T\u016Bwhakatere married T\u016Bterangi\u0101tohia of Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B and T\u016Bp\u014Dia of Ng\u0101ti Kahu and begat Ng\u0101i Takoto, giving rise to the aphorism \u201CA swift small shark off Rangaunu, great is its wake.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000167\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EM\u0101mari and Ng\u0101tokimatawhaorua are the canoes, Nukutawhiti and Ruanui are the commanders on board. Tarutaru married the fish emerging from its cave, Ruapounamu, and begat Te Rarawa, consumer of houses indeed! M\u0101mari is the canoe, Ruanui is the man, and from him came his grandchildren Wh\u0113ru and Te Ikanui, and behold, Te Aup\u014Duri was begat! Its proverb is: \u201CAs God is to heaven, so is Te Aup\u014Duri to land.\u201D Kurahaup\u014D is the canoe, P\u014Dhurihanga is the man. P\u014Dhurihanga married Maieke, and behold, Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B was begat indeed! From The Bailer of M\u0101taatua as far as Spirits Bay are Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B Matakak\u0101, Ng\u0101ti Kur\u012B Matamomoe, and, from Muriwhenua, daughter of P\u014Dhurihanga and Maieke, came the descendants from the five tribes of Te Hiku o Te Ika, so acknowledgments to you all. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000168\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EBefore I came into this House, my uncles Hone Harawira and the Hon Shane Jones were the relatives of these tribes referred to in this bill. However, I am the only member of this House at this point in time who can recite a genealogy to all of these tribes. I will hold back my genealogical connections until the third reading of this bill. I will make my connections public then to the ancestors whose names appear in this bill. We were given the privilege to formally welcome you my esteemed elders and myriad of relations, and despite the vast number of empty seats in this House, a loving and welcoming voice is extended to you collectively. Although many of the seats of the House are vacant, I extend my sincerest regards and acknowledgments to you all, and I address you as one of your own grandchildren. I salute you all collectively, greetings to you and salutations to us all. There, then, it is I your grandchild extending this official welcome to you, so welcome and salutations to you collectively and to us all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000169\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003ET\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Assistant Speaker. It is with great trepidation that I stand to address this House and this bill today, for I stand in front of my people from the far north. I know full well that should I falter, when I return home it will be a swift kick up the bum. I want to acknowledge them today. I also want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the many who have already been mentioned this morning. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000170\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EI want to start by taking our minds back to the Muriwhenua claim. I acknowledge the battleground that is the claims process. In our history, we acknowledge the warriors of the past. My tuakana Kelvin has spoken of Te Hout\u0101ewa. We acknowledge the great deeds of M\u0101ori warriors in our history. Sadly, however, the greatest battle of my generation\u2014and certainly of the generation before me and the generation before that\u2014has been that of the battle of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. I want to acknowledge Matiu Rata. I want to acknowledge Rima Edwards, McCully Matiu, Jeb Brown, Te Rima P\u0113tera, Sana Murray, Glass Murray, Simon Snowden, Mere Patrisovich, and Musa Erstich. These great tupuna of mine\u2014indeed of ours\u2014paved the way forward for Muriwhenua. Indeed, although the clothes might be different on the body, in our discussion of the bill on the Table today they certainly paved that pathway for us all here. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000171\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EMy tuakana Kelvin Davis spoke of the rich history of the many tribes of Te Hiku o Te Ika. He spoke of our tupuna T\u014Dhe and his daughter R\u0101ninikura. The reason for these stories is so that the names of those places are not lost to future generations. As I discussed this morning in the Te Kawerau \u0101 Maki Claims Settlement Bill, it shows the mana whenua of the tribes of the north and their domain. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000172\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EI want to look now to the settlement process, and, of course, to the bill in front us today and the cultural redress afforded by this bill to the people of Te Hiku o Te Ika. I want to reiterate and, indeed, echo my words this morning about tino rangatiratanga. Tino rangatiratanga is prescribed to us by our ancestors who put their sacred marks on Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Tino rangatiratanga, as prescribed in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, is not co-management. Tino rangatiratanga, as prescribed in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, is not mackintosh coats put over a M\u0101ori taonga. I use the term \u201Cmaket\u014D\u201D, or \u201Cmackintosh\u201D, because it is that of a P\u0101keh\u0101 nature and is not a korowai. It is tino rangatiratanga that the people of Te Hiku are looking towards. May this bill be a step in the right direction for the people of Te Hiku o Te Ika\u2014t\u0113n\u0101 koe. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000173\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EI want to speak very briefly about the commercial redress, for it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge that the commercial redress, as it is set out in this bill in its first reading, does not meet but a fraction of the injustices suffered by the people of Te Hiku o Te Ika. I want to put that on the record, so that it can be a stake in the ground when future iwi and generations look towards settlement for themselves\u2014so that they look towards a brighter, more prosperous future, moving on from the small fractions and piecemeal offerings that are being offered to our people today. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000174\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EI want to look towards the future, and, in typical M\u0101ori fashion, I want to look towards the future by acknowledging the past. A young man by the name of Luke Tipene was murdered recently. Today his body is to be returned to his people and put back into his whenua of Te Rarawa and Ahipara. I want to acknowledge that young man, for it was with him in mind that our ancestors fought hard for the rights of Te Hiku o Te Ika. I am saddened that he will not be able to take part today and, indeed, enjoy the fruits of the labours of our ancestors, as described in the many reports and history relating to Te Hiku o Te Ika. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000175\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EI want to conclude by touching on some of the proverbs that we hold dear in Te Hiku o Te Ika, as a cautionary tale to my many whanaunga from the far north. He r\u0101ngai maomao ka taka ki tua o Nukutaurua, e kore a muri e hokia\u2014a shoal of maomao that shall pass the bluff of Nukutaurua shall never return. This has been used to lament the loss of ancestors and loved ones. However, in this context I wish to put this to my people of Te Hiku o Te Ika, who, on their journey, should not forget to look to the past for inspiration. Do not forget to look to the teachings, the genealogy, and the lessons left to us by our ancestors. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000176\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e77494a0-1be1-432f-b492-fd160f4c119d\u0022\u003EFinally, I want to acknowledge the many people in the House today who speak passionately on this bill in its first reading. Can I assure my whanaunga from Te Hiku o Te Ika that you will continue to hear my voice and, indeed, the voices of Mr Kelvin Davis and others in this House pertaining to this bill. K\u0101ti m\u0101 t\u0113nei w\u0101. [That is enough for now.] It is true what my whaea, the member of this House Marama Fox, mentioned about the tail and the head of the fish, and how the tail indeed dictates the direction the fish may travel. Today the tail is indeed wagging the head. T\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022 data-id=\u0022753ea324aeaf487e83fa50a2634ff168\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000177\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022753ea324aeaf487e83fa50a2634ff168\u0022\u003ENUK KORAKO (National):\u003C/span\u003E T\u016B a Te Kahukura, t\u016Bt\u016B Te Heihei! T\u016B a Te Kahukura, t\u016Bt\u016B Te Ruki! Te Kahukura uta, Te Kahukura tai! Te Heihei, Kahukura mai, Te Heihei, Kahukura atu! E t\u016B mai r\u0101 koe e te tihi o Kahukura e! E mai e, mai e, mai e te tipua? Mai e, mai e, mai e te tawhito? E haere mai i a koe, i a Whakah\u014Dtunuku, i a Whakah\u014Dturaki? Ko t\u014Du manawa, ko t\u014Dku manawa! Ko T\u0101ne t\u0101 i hea? E t\u016Bturu mau kia whakamaua ka tina, haumi e, hui e, t\u0101iki e! \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 r\u0101 koutou pou waitaka o t\u014D t\u0101tau Matua T\u012Bpuna. \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou o ng\u0101 iwi o Te Hiku, ko Ng\u0101ti Kuri, Ng\u0101iTakoto, Te Rarawa, Te Aupouri. Nau mai me ng\u0101 wawata, me tauiwi kia whai hua, kia whai tika. \u0100, n\u014D reira e piki mai, kake mai, h\u014Dmai te wairua. N\u014D reira, e mihi, e mihi, e mihi atu ki a koutou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000178\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003E[Arise Kahukura, standfast Te Heihei. Arise Te Kahukura, standfast Te Ruki! Te Kahukura inland, Te Kahukura shorewards! Te Heihei, Kahukura here, Te Heihei, Kahukura there! Rise up before me you the summit of Kahukura behold! Where are you from the demon and the ancient? Are you from Whakah\u014Dtunuku or Whakah\u014Dturaki? Your heart is my heart! Where is T\u0101ne\u2019s one from? Hold fast to it, secure it, draw together and affirm! Acknowledgments to you particularly our Lord\u2019s creators and you the tribes of Te Hiku, Ng\u0101ti Kuri, Ng\u0101i Takoto, Te Rarawa and Te Aupouri. Welcome with the aspirations and non-M\u0101ori so that it bears fruit and it is proper. So come aboard, mount up and give us the spirit. I therefore commend, acknowledge and salute you all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000179\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EI rise to support the first reading of the Te Hiku Claims Settlement Bill. I want to highlight some of the important things that this bill actually includes. First of all, the hallmark of this bill is the fact that the legislation will see one of the largest returns of land to M\u0101ori ownership. The place we call the tail of the fish is steeped in historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. It is the spiritual link to the ancestral home of Hawaiki. It is the land walked by Kupe. The settlement legislation provides for some unique and special arrangements that recognise the importance of these lands. The karakia timataka that I did, the prayer\u2014ko T\u016Btehounuku Korako ahau. Ko Auraki Mauka, Ko Waitaki te awa. Ko Kai Ng\u0101i Tahu, K\u0101ti M\u0101moe, Waitaha ng\u0101 iwi. [I am T\u016Btehounuku K\u014Drako. Auraki is the mountain, Waitaki is the river, Ng\u0101i Tahu, K\u0101ti Mamoe and Waitaha are the tribes.] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000180\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EIn quoting that second part of where the spirits depart from\u2014where I live, in the Port Hills of R\u0101paki o Te Rakiwhakaputa, there is a mountain there called Te Tihi o Kahukura. On that mountain is where we farewell our spirits because from there they head north to Te Rerenga Wairua. That karakia is \u201CYonder the Rainbow\u201D. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000181\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EYonder the rainbow brightly gleams,\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000182\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EYonder the rainbow vaporous gleams,\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000183\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EThe rainbow is ashore, the rainbow at sea,\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000184\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EI want to acknowledge today the wh\u0101nau and the iwi for your tenacity and for your hope and dreams. They are coming to fruition. My iwi, K\u0101i Tahu, have been on that journey. It is a journey where you have fair wind and foul wind, but as long as you keep your head on the horizon and looking towards it, the waka will come to the landing. This will surely happen to you. The important connection Te Hiku iwi have with Te Oneroa-a-T\u014Dh\u0113 as a place of customs, spirituality, and sustenance is recognised in this settlement, just like the w\u0101hi tapu in Te Wai Pounamu, so I salute you. Te Hiku will have increased decision-making powers over conservation lands, under the korowai for enhanced conservation. That, to me, is about tino rakatirataka. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000185\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EFinally, alongside the significant cultural sites, it is actually about the key commercial assets. As we as an iwi have found, once the redress has happened you will have the opportunity to be able to exercise your economic benefits within your own lands. N\u014D reira, if I could finally congratulate the Office of Treaty Settlements on the work that it has done on this claim. Also, I want to acknowledge our colleagues te Roopu Reipa and New Zealand First\u2014kia ora, Pita\u2014for the collegial work that we all do for the sake of M\u0101ori. This is a true reflection today. I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000186\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EN\u014D reira, e Te Hiku, ka mihi, e mihi, e mihi atu ki a koutou katoa. Kia ora.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000187\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003E[Therefore I commend, acknowledge, and salute you all Te Hiku. Thank you.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022 data-id=\u0022ef94dee91f3a47a1a29675e422465e5a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000188\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ef94dee91f3a47a1a29675e422465e5a\u0022\u003EDAVID CLENDON (Green):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Assistant Speaker. Kei te mihi nui ki a koutou ng\u0101 manuhiri ki t\u0113nei Whare i te r\u0101 nei, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa. Ki te mana o ng\u0101 iwi o Te Hiku o Te Ika, ng\u0101 kaitiaki o Muriwhenua, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000189\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker. I extend a huge acknowledgment to you collectively, the visitors to this House today, greetings to you all. To the power of the tribes of Te Hiku and the guardians of Muriwhenua, accolades and congratulations to you collectively and thank you to us all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000190\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EI am pleased to take a call on behalf of the Greens to lend our support to this important bill, to this very substantial bill. Running to some 700 or so pages, its sheer bulk and heft reflect the importance of the agreements, of the undertakings, that are contained within it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000191\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EOn Sunday afternoon I was fortunate to be at quite a large celebration of the birthday of a local identity in the Kait\u0101ia area. He lives on a hilltop just a couple of kilometres out of Ahipara. From his home we were looking north and somewhat to the west, along Te Oneroa-a-T\u014Dhe, seeing in the distance the landscapes, the headland at Houhora, and of course further north to Te Rerenga Wairua. Clearly I have connections to the north, and long may they continue, but I think no one could stand and look at that landscape and not be moved by the power of that landscape, by the beauty of that landscape, and by the significance of that landscape. It would be an unfortunate human being indeed who could look at that view and not think it was something very special, something unique, and something very precious. Clearly, it is most precious of all to the people in whose care it has been for a very long time, and whose care it will continue to be in. This bill does advance the possibility and the opportunity for the mana of that land, for the kaitiakitanga of that land, and for the ongoing care and sustenance of that land to be returned home to the hands of those who hold it most dear. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EWe have heard a number of times already references to the very well-known ng\u0101 whakatau\u0101ki, referencing the fact that the head of the fish is here in Wellington and the tail is in the far north. One can wonder, of course, at the collective wisdom that has been contained in the head, specifically in this institution, over many decades, given that it has taken so long for a settlement to be advanced that will be found at least satisfactory to the people of the far north. The first appeals based on the relationship in Te Tiriti date back to the late 19th century, within a few decades of the signing of the Treaty\u2014over 100 years of toil, of effort, to bring the situation to a level of fruition, to advance another step in this House today. As others have done, we must acknowledge the ongoing commitment, the work, and the absolute belief of those people, past and present, who have worked so hard to bring this bill to the House, to bring the settlement, the agreement, to the stage it has reached. Of course we all look forward to having this resolved swiftly, in order that the redress can be made real and that the financial and cultural redress will be satisfied. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000193\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EThe point is that the tail of the fish must be moving in order for the whole creature to move forward. For a very long time there has not been a great deal of energy in the far north. It has been a depressed region\u2014some would say a repressed region\u2014and these settlements are part of restoring the energy to that place, because without it this country will not prosper, and there is a long history of that. The energy, in this case, will be represented in part by the financial redress, which in total is to the effect of some $100 million\u2014a small amount in terms of what was taken, what was lost, but at least it is a basis to allow the innovative, the hard-working, and the creative people of the far north to build their own future on, to create their own future for themselves and for the following generations, which is, after all, what these bills are about. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000194\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EReading through the bill, it is substantial. I appeal to people who may have no particular interest in this specific settlement but who are New Zealanders\u2014be they M\u0101ori, P\u0101keh\u0101, tauiwi, or whatever they may be\u2014to even read just the summary of the apologies. It is important that people read and understand why these settlements are necessary and important. Much of that is contained in the apology. I expect very few people will read the whole 700 pages, but simply to engage with some of the history and the Crown\u2019s apology does reflect the significance of these moments, of these settlements. The Crown\u2019s mana was seriously diminished in its failure to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi. People often believe that yes, M\u0101ori were alienated from their land, lost their language, and their tikanga was disrespected, but at no point was the loss of mana to M\u0101ori to the extent that it was to the Crown. The failure to respect and honour the articles of Te Tiriti did diminish the honour of the Crown. Indeed, it is to restore that mana as much as anything that these settlements are necessary and important. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000195\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EThe Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations mentioned the importance of leadership, and I must acknowledge, as others have, Minister Finlayson, who has displayed significant leadership in this and other settlements. I think I am right in saying that he has overseen more settlements than any other Minister, and that is to his credit. I must also acknowledge the obvious sincerity that he brings to his concern to see these settlements advanced. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000196\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EBut leaders, of course, are nothing without followers. It is the challenge of leadership in the north, as elsewhere, to maintain the integrity of the community of wh\u0101nau, hap\u016B, and iwi as the steps towards a better future are made. We do have that leadership in the north\u2014there is no question of that\u2014both in our m\u0101tua and in some of our younger leaders coming through. It is in their hands that the future will lie, but it is important that these bills are acknowledged and accepted and that the communities feel part of the settlement, or else they will not succeed as much as they might. That is the ongoing work both of the leadership within the iwi and hap\u016B and of us, particularly those MPs from the north, who have a responsibility to participate in some of that as well. Certainly, as a Green MP in the north, I am entirely committed to seeing the success of these settlements. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000197\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EIt is only through individuals and collectives\u2014the Government, local government, communities generally, iwi, hap\u016B\u2014and through a combined acceptance that these are good settlements, they are necessary settlements, and that they will succeed to the extent that is possible. We need long-term sustainable outcomes. M\u0101oridom does not think in terms of years but in terms of generations, and in these settlements we need to be thinking in similar terms. The horizon is not 3 years or 6 years or a decade; it is multiple generations into the future, and that should guide our decision making and our actions at this point and from this point forward to ensure that we acknowledge the past, heal the hurt that was done, and give M\u0101oridom a base to determine its own future. That is the essence of rangatiratanga\u2014self-determination\u2014and it cannot be done in a vacuum. As the lands are returned, as the financial redress is made, as the cultural redress is determined, we can look forward to a future that we can collectively be proud of. Kia ora.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022 data-id=\u002207153e24e77e4a108214bb34cd910894\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000198\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002207153e24e77e4a108214bb34cd910894\u0022\u003EPITA PARAONE (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koe, t\u0113n\u0101 an\u014D t\u0101tou Te Whare. \u0112 aku rangatira, aku whanaunga karanga maha o Te Tai Tokerau e k\u012B nei t\u0113n\u0101 pito, ar\u0101, ko Muriwhenua \u0113ngari i raro o te kaupapa o te pire nei, Te Hiku n\u0101 reira, nau mai, haere mai. Kei te t\u016B ake ki te tautoko i ng\u0101 mihi i mihingia e waku tu\u0101kana ki te whakatau i a koutou ki Te Whare nei, kia kite atu i a koutou i te urunga mai o t\u0101 koutou pire, i whakap\u0101ha Te Karauna ki wana mahi ki w\u0101 t\u0101tou m\u0101tua t\u016Bpuna, n\u0101 reira, nau mai, haere mai. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000199\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003E[Thank you and greetings once again to us, the House. To my chiefs and my relatives of many callings of Northland, which that end say is Muriwhenua but under the policy of this bill is Te Hiku, I welcome you, so welcome. I rise to endorse the tributes my seniors accorded you when they welcomed you to this House and to acknowledge your presence here at the arrival of your bill whereby the Crown apologises for its action against our ancestral grandparents. So welcome, welcome.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000200\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EIt is a pleasure to be able to stand in this House at this time as part of the introduction and the first reading of the Te Hiku Claims Settlement Bill. In so doing I recognise all the iwi of Te Hiku. Can I say that when I came into this world I came at a time when we were as children reminded that there were five iwi of Te Tai Tokerau. But it would seem to me that what we should have been told is that there are five iwi of Muriwhenua, and today this bill recognises that. Can I say that it is part of this whole claims process that the recognition of the five iwi in Te Hiku, known to some of us as Muriwhenua, has come to fruition and is recognised by the Crown in this legislation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000201\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EIn so doing I stand with some sadness because I am old enough to remember some members of Muriwhenua who were responsible and who were recognised as leaders of their time and have since passed on, and as part of that leadership we had the Te Aup\u014Duri M\u0101ori Trust Board. And when I talk about the Te Aup\u014Duri M\u0101ori Trust Board I am mindful of Jack King, Walter Te Pania, Ricki \u0112tana, M\u0101nuera, including George W\u012Btana, Haki Campbell, Rima Edwards, Matiu Wiki; all who have passed on; all who are descended from or related to those who gave their lives in defence of this country. It is appropriate that we have the grandson of a child of Muriwhenua who returned, leading the M\u0101ori Battalion back to these shores. At this stage I want to recognise the sole surviving member of A Company. N\u0101 reira e Hare, ahakoa horekau koe kei waenganui i a t\u0101tou i te r\u0101 nei, e noho tonu koe ki te w\u0101 k\u0101inga. T\u0113nei te mihi atu ki a koe m\u014D t\u014D kaha. [Therefore, despite your absence amongst us here today Hare, you remain at home. I salute you for your stamina.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000202\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EI make mention of Mr Charlie P\u0113tera, the sole surviving member of A Company of the 28th M\u0101ori Battalion. I see in the bill that there is reference to Te Rerenga Wairua, and we have heard today from various speakers of the significance of that area to M\u0101ori. It is where the spirits depart this world. I know that Mr P\u0113tera would like to see the establishment or the erection of a memorial to the 28th M\u0101ori Battalion soldiers who gave their lives in defence of our country. I am hoping that as a consequence of this bill and the co-management\u2014and not tino rangatiratanga as my tuakana said, but the co-management\u2014that consideration and approval be given to that notion. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000203\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EWe have talked about leadership, and I have to acknowledge those who have been responsible for bringing this bill to this House at this time. I know from my experience that that has not been an easy and simple journey. I can recall my father telling me, when I was elected as chairman of that great iwi in the north, Ng\u0101ti Hine\u2014when I became chairman of the r\u016Bnanga, he said: \u201CBoy, never forget to look behind you from time to time, because if there\u2019s no one behind you, then you\u2019ve got to ask yourself who you are leading.\u201D For those who have brought this bill to this House at this stage, whether or not you carry on the task of leading your people is something that your people will determine. But I acknowledge the endeavour\u2014the sacrifice\u2014that you have made to bring this bill to this stage. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000204\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EA feature of all these settlements is the lack of recognition by the Crown of the iwi of the time and their entitlement to protection under the Treaty of Waitangi. This bill goes a long way towards addressing a lot of the issues confronting the people of Te Hiku. I am mindful of Rima Edwards, who some years ago had applied to the Government to have the name of Ninety Mile Beach revert to its original name, Te Oneroa-a-T\u014Dhe, and that was declined. Yet throughout this bill that name has been recognised, and so I am mindful of the work that Rima did in this area. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000205\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EI am also a little bit saddened that my whanaunga, both Hone Harawira and Shane Jones, are not in the House to be able to talk to this bill. I know that, without any doubt, both were very passionate about seeing this bill come to fruition. And although they would have been approached by those who do not support the bill in the way that it has been presented, at least they knew that they had representation in this House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000206\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EI do not want to go through the historical account, but the fact that the history has been recognised, and is now within this bill, means that it will go on record and provide for generations to come a record of the efforts that their ancestors have made to rectify what has always been rightfully theirs.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000207\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EAt this time I am mindful of the Rev. K\u012Bngi \u012Ahaka and the waiata \u201CToro Mai T\u014D Ringa\u201D, the extension of your hand. Without any doubt the people of Te Hiku have done that to the Crown. They have extended that arm, knowing full well that this settlement will go nowhere near to fulfilling their entitlement. I think that, like all other iwi who come to this House seeking a settlement, the people of Te Hiku know that they are not able to get their full entitlement, but having said that, I commend this bill to the House. New Zealand First will certainly be supporting its referral to the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. I hope that those who feel that they have not had their concerns heard will take the opportunity of exercising their rights through the select committee process to bring their concerns to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000208\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EN\u0101 reira e t\u0101tau m\u0101, koin\u0101 n\u014D ng\u0101 k\u014Drero m\u014D t\u0113nei, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, kia ora mai an\u014D t\u0101tou.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000209\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003E[There you are my collective, those are the sentiments about this, so acknowledgments and congratulations to you collectively, and my appreciation to us all once again.] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022 data-id=\u002239e9ab02bde94a2e9cfcd161f27204b9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000210\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002239e9ab02bde94a2e9cfcd161f27204b9\u0022\u003EADRIAN RURAWHE (Labour\u2014Te Tai Hau\u0101uru):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Assistant Speaker. Otir\u0101, t\u0113nei ahau e tuku mi\u2019i atu ki a koutou ng\u0101 iwi o Te Hiku o Te Ika, ki a Ng\u0101ti Kuri, Ng\u0101iTakoto, Te Rarawa, Te Aupouri. Anei ahau he uri o Ng\u0101puhi, o Ng\u0101ti Kahu an\u014D hoki e tuku mihi atu ki a koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou. Otir\u0101, e mi\u2019i atu a au ki a koutou ng\u0101 kaik\u014Drero katoa e tuku atu \u014D koutou k\u014Drero kei r\u014D Te Whare nei.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000211\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker, but at the same time I acknowledge you collectively, the tribes of the Tail of the Fish, Ng\u0101ti Kuri, Ng\u0101iTakoto, Te Rarawa, and Te Aupouri. Here I am a relative of Ng\u0101puhi and of Ng\u0101ti Kahu as well extending a greeting to you collectively. Acknowledgments, accolades, and salutations. Indeed I acknowledge you all, the speakers.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000212\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EI just want to start off by first acknowledging all of the iwi in the House today who were involved in this bill. I want to echo the words of the previous speaker, matua Pita Paraone, about the extension of the hand in this case. I remember that when I was part of my iwi Ng\u0101ti Apa\u2019s claim the then Minister in charge of Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations, Mark Burton, said these words: \u201CEvery iwi that settles their claim performs an act of generosity to New Zealand.\u201D In support of what the member Pita Paraone has just said, I would like to repeat those words and apply them to the iwi involved in this bill\u2014ng\u0101 iwi o Te Hiku. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000213\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EToday, I also think it is important to recognise the considerable effort that has gone into this major bill, which involves many parts. I understand that it is one of the biggest bills to ever come to the House. I think that acknowledgement of the Crown and of all the iwi negotiators for bringing this settlement together needs to be made, and I do that today. I also acknowledge all of us who have whakapapa from Tai Tokerau. So far I am the fifth speaker in this debate of around 10 speeches with whakapapa from Tai Tokerau, and maybe there is one more coming; I am not sure. If so, then the majority of the speakers today have been from Tai Tokerau. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000214\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EI think that is something to be celebrated, because one of the frustrating things about sitting in the gallery, and I have been there when a settlement bill has gone through the House, is that you do not get to reply. I know that quite often there will be some people sitting in the gallery who would love to reply\u2014notwithstanding the former member the Hon Shane Jones, I am sure. From this bill\u2014which will be split into five different bills, I understand\u2014each one of the iwi will have their own settlement bill, and then their own settlement legislation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000215\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EI want to turn my attention to two features of this bill\u2014namely, the cultural redress and the collective redress elements. The collective redress elements surely must have taken a lot of discussion for four iwi. I know what it is like to get one iwi to agree on something at home in my hap\u016B and iwi, but this gets four iwi to agree on collective redress elements, such as the Crown forestry licensed land, and the arrangements that are in this bill, which will set out quite clearly the arrangements for its future management and the benefits derived from that Crown forest land. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000216\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EAlso, I want to mention\u2014and it has been mentioned before, as well\u2014the arrangements for Te Oneroa-a-T\u014Dhe Board. Each of the iwi will participate on that board, along with local authorities, with 50 percent representation from iwi and 50 percent representation from local bodies, but with decision making having a requirement of a 70 percent agreement. That, to me, tells me that the people who have negotiated this settlement are determined that there will be a very clear decision-making process, and that consensus\u2014for want of a better word\u2014would probably be best to describe the overall function of that board, at a 70 percent majority. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000217\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EI also want to mention te korowai and the collective arrangements around that part of the bill, as well. It will also require cooperation from all of the participants for that to work. So I congratulate the iwi of Te Hiku on their determination to use that part of this bill and this agreement for the future benefit of their people. That is also the case for the social development and well-being accord, which, in a similar vein, is part of that collective of working together in unity. So I want to acknowledge that as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000218\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EThere are always fish-hooks, as I like to call them, in such legislation. I just want to record that with regard to the relationship agreements within the bill, where the Crown says that it will have a taumata rangatira hui each year between the iwi and the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations, there is an \u201Cor\u201D, and I get worried when there is an \u201Cor\u201D in these arrangements\u2014\u201Cor\u201D the ministries themselves. I think it is really important to have it recorded that those meetings with Ministers\u2014with the decision makers\u2014are at the highest level, because my experience tells me that when officials, and not Ministers, sometimes turn up to the meetings, they are not the decision makers. So I would encourage the Government to make sure that it is indeed the Ministers who turn up to those meetings. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000219\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EThere is a host of cultural redress items, including\u2014and I counted\u201481 properties to be transferred to Ng\u0101ti Kuri, Te Aupouri, Ng\u0101iTakoto, and Te Rarawa. Some of these properties are shared, but I think\u2014along with such things as statutory acknowledgments, protocols, fisheries advisory committees, geographic place name changes, and a host of other mechanisms\u2014that it does mean that that cultural reconnection can be a real thing for the iwi involved. Although I have whakapapa from the north, I have spent my entire life in Te Tau Hau\u0101uru, with my mother\u2019s people. I was happy to have a story relayed to me by one of my colleagues, Kelvin Davis, about Murimotu Island, which both Ng\u0101ti Kuri and Te Aupouri have interests in. I was told the story of T\u016Bmatahina, a great warrior and chief who found himself, along with his people, under siege on Murimotu Island. He asked his people to weave a long flax rope, which they then used to guide themselves to the mainland, with each one of them stepping in the footsteps of the person ahead of them, hiding the fact that all of them had left the island. Through this action, T\u016Bmatahina saved the lives of his people. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000220\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EThat story is about the tenacity of a great leader. It is about survival, it is about unity of purpose, and it is about protecting the future. I think that in a modern sense this bill and the work completed by ng\u0101 iwi o Te Hiku o Te Ika highlights the iwi\u2019s tenacity, their unity of purpose, and their desire to protect the future for their mokopuna. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000221\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EN\u014D reira, e Te Mana Whaka\u2019aere o Te Whare nei, t\u0113n\u0101 koe, otir\u0101, e tuku mi\u2019i atu an\u014D ki a koutou ng\u0101 iwi o Te Hiku o Te Ika, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000222\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker of this House, and my acknowledgments indeed to you the tribes of the Tail of the Fish. Thank you collectively and congratulations.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000223\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003EI commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022 data-id=\u0022772b1eaf984c4691a97b0e912e90cf2f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000224\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022772b1eaf984c4691a97b0e912e90cf2f\u0022\u003EJOANNE HAYES (National):\u003C/span\u003E T\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Assistant Speaker. I am pleased to stand to take a very short call on the first reading of the Te Hiku Claims Settlement Bill. Ng\u0101 wh\u0101nau me ng\u0101 hap\u016B, ng\u0101 iwi o Te Hiku, nau mai, haere mai i t\u0113nei r\u0101, te r\u0101 whakahirahira m\u014D ng\u0101 iwi o Te Aupouri, Ng\u0101iTakoto, Te Rarawa me Ng\u0101ti Kuri.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000225\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003E[Welcome to the families, subtribes, and tribes of Te Hiku today, a wonderful one at that for the tribes of Te Aupouri, Ng\u0101i Takoto, Te Rarawa, and Ng\u0101ti Kuri. Welcome.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000226\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EToday is the start of a great celebration, the light at the end of the tunnel that each of the iwi has travelled. It is one that began with many of your t\u016Bpuna and will conclude with your mokopuna now and into the future. This legislation will see the return of one of the largest blocks of land to M\u0101ori ownership, as one of my colleagues outlined before: the spiritual link to our ancestral home of Hawaiki, Te Rerenga Wairua, and Te Oneroa-a-T\u014Dhe, or Ninety Mile Beach, and many other places of cultural significance. I could go on and on, but I will stop for now and speak a little bit more at the later stages. So for now I am pleased to commend this bill to the House. Kia ora.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EBill read a first time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000228\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EBill referred to the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000229\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003EWaiata\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000230\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002205a20d5c04964790b0e5ed2ea4a4080f\u0022\u003EHawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000231\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u002270549e447fc94a35895df979d22be3de\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022 data-id=\u0022b7eec04856e84a8b8bf5aa589bea6c56\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000232\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b7eec04856e84a8b8bf5aa589bea6c56\u0022\u003EHon TE URUROA FLAVELL (Minister for M\u0101ori Development) \u003C/span\u003Eon behalf of the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations: T\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Assistant Speaker. Kia ora koe m\u014D te whakatika i t\u0113r\u0101 k\u014Drero, \u0101, t\u0113n\u0101 koe, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tau katoa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000233\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E[Thank you for correcting that statement, and greetings to you, and to us all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000234\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI move, That the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee Bill be now read a first time. I nominate the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee to consider this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000235\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI recognise that other iwi are in the House this morning, some moving on. Ko \u0113tahi kai te puta i Te Whare, ko \u0113tahi i tae mai i mua i t\u0113nei o ng\u0101 p\u0101nuitanga tuatahi. Hoi an\u014D, ko t\u0101ku he mihi kau atu ki a t\u0101tau, ng\u0101 mema P\u0101remata M\u0101ori e puta nei, ka mihi r\u0101 ki a t\u0101tau, te tikanga ia ko t\u0113nei te w\u0101 tuatahi kua noho p\u0113nei t\u0101tau i roto i t\u0113nei Whare. Ka mihi ki ng\u0101 iwi kei roto i Te Whare P\u0101remata i t\u0113nei ata. T\u0113n\u0101 koutou kai aku rangatira, haere mai r\u0101 ki roto i Te Whare P\u0101remata. Ka mutu, kai te m\u014Dhio tonu au kua ea te w\u0101hi o \u0113tahi o ng\u0101 pire i te tau kua hipa, otir\u0101, i mua i t\u0113nei r\u0101, ka mihi r\u0101 ki t\u0113r\u0101 \u0101huatanga, me te m\u014Dhio an\u014D hoki, i t\u0113nei r\u0101 ko Tainui t\u0113r\u0101 e tangi nei m\u014D t\u0101 r\u0101tau tangata, a Eru T\u0101mihana. Ko ia t\u0113r\u0101 kua riro ki tua o te pae o maumahara. N\u014D reira, ko t\u0101ku he t\u0101piri atu i ng\u0101 mihi katoa ki ng\u0101 mate huhua o te w\u0101. Koutou ki te p\u014D, haere koutou, e moe, okioki mai r\u0101. T\u0101tau te hunga ora, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, kia ora t\u0101tau katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000236\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E[Some are leaving the House and some got here before the first reading of this bill. Therefore my part is merely to acknowledge those of us members leaving the Chamber. It is appropriate that I should do this, because, according to procedure, this is the first time we have met in this manner in this House. I acknowledge the presence of the tribes in the House of Parliament this morning, and furthermore I am fully cognisant of the fact that parts of some bills have been fulfilled last year, before today, but mindful at the same time that Tainui is presently mourning the loss of their man Eru Tamihana. He is the one who has traversed beyond the horizon of remembrance. So I add my condolences to all of those, to the many deaths of the moment. You the deaths depart, sleep and rest there in the void, and to you the living I acknowledge you all. Congratulations to us all.] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000237\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI just want to join with other speakers this morning who have acknowledged those who have passed on. I recognise that some of the tribal members in our gallery bring with them those who have passed on, and I recognise this morning Eru Thompson, who passed away\u2014n\u014D roto i Tainui waka [from within the canoe of Tainui]\u2014as well as the many others. So we think about them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000238\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI want to extend a warm welcome to the representatives of the Hawke\u2019s Bay, and, of course, the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council, which is involved in this bill, and who have joined together today. I understand that the interim chief executive of the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council and the chair of the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council are also in the House today. I welcome them, along with, obviously, others who are in the House. I also extend a warm welcome to Fran Wilde\u2014t\u0113n\u0101 koe\u2014who was the chief Crown negotiator for the Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera negotiations, where this bill had its origins. She is also in the House today.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000239\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EThis bill is the outcome of a lot of hard work and cooperation amongst all of the parties involved. It represents a positive approach for the future engagement between the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council and iwi in the Hawke\u2019s Bay region. It is a constructive relationship, which has taken time and dedication, and a lot of work was put into making a real difference. Can I acknowledge the commitment and dedication of all of you who have come to the House today in advancing the bill to this particular phase.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000240\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EWhen I was at St Stephen\u2019s School\u2014when I was highly academic and highly sporting, and in the kapa haka team\u2014one of the songs we always used to sing was one by Canon W\u012B Huata of Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu. This song is always sung in Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu land. He was an Anglican minister and a military chaplain. I did not realise this, but he wrote a song whilst he was with his family at Lake T\u016Btira, north of Napier. The song\u2014and I am sure even you have heard of it, Mr Assistant Speaker\u2014is \u201CT\u016Btira mai ng\u0101 iwi\u201D. I would ask you to sing a few verses, but it will be all right\u2014I will let you off. It goes something like this:\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000241\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003ET\u016Btira mai ng\u0101 iwi\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000242\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003ET\u0101tou t\u0101tou e\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000243\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003ET\u016Btira mai ng\u0101 iwi\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000244\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003ET\u0101tou t\u0101tou e\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000245\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EOh, that is enough\u2014that is enough. It might be matatini. I think that is a good song for today, because it basically epitomises this bill, with iwi working alongside local councils, and ending up in Parliament to actually adjust how we do things and the relationship between all parties. If you did not know, \u201CT\u016Btira mai ng\u0101 iwi\u201D means \u201CBring everybody together; line everybody together\u2014all of us together.\u201D So I think today it is a pretty appropriate occasion to sing that song. If you were to ask me to carry on, Mr Assistant Speaker, I would have, but you did not, so I will not.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000246\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EThis bill is a modern-day application of those lyrics, as I say, with the council, the iwi, and the community lining up and coming together. The origins of this bill take us back to July 2010. At that time, I am told, Cabinet agreed to establish by legislation a planning committee of the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council. The Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera deed of settlement committed the Crown to establishing a committee, comprising equal numbers of council members and representatives of iwi, to have input into natural resources planning processes that affect the region.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000247\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EOriginally, the legislation was to establish the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee by Supplementary Order Paper to a Treaty settlement bill. However, there was no suitable settlement legislation to which such an amendment could be applied. As a result, this stand-alone Government bill has been drafted to establish the committee. The bill is necessary to ensure that post-settlement governance entities and Crown-mandated entities are entitled to appoint representatives. It is about recognising authority, and sanctioning the iwi mandate. The bill also ensures that the committee cannot be disestablished unilaterally by the council, despite the provision of schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000248\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EIn practical terms, the committee has been in operation, as I understand it, for over a year, and each group has nominated and appointed its own representative to the committee. For this reason, the bill provides for appointer rights to be extended to those iwi with Crown-recognised mandated entities, as well as post-settlement governance entities. This gives legislative effect to the practical arrangements already in place. You would say that it is highly sensible, and that it makes a nice change to see legislation taking account of the practical realities of the everyday context.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000249\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EThe purpose of the committee to be established by this bill is to oversee the development and review of the regional policy statement and the regional plans for the Hawke\u2019s Bay region, which will be prepared in accordance with the Resource Management Act 1991. The broader intention behind all of this is to improve engagement between the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council and iwi in relation to resource management matters. This is obviously going to be a contentious issue in the foreseeable future.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000250\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EThe planning committee is an excellent example of tangata whenua and local government working together. The planning committee includes representatives of Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council; Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera; Maungaharuru-Tangit\u016B, who are also here; Mana Ahuriri Inc.; Ng\u0101ti Hineuru Iwi Inc.; Ng\u0101ti Ruapani; Te Tira Whakaemi o Te Wairoa; and Ng\u0101ti T\u016Bwharetoa\u2014which is a pretty big spread of iwi. Ng\u0101i T\u016Bhoe and He Toa Takitini also have the option to join.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000251\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EBy introducing this bill in the House today, we give effect to the commitment made by the Government in the Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera deed of settlement. The bill goes one step further, and represents the agreements recorded in the Maungaharuru-Tangit\u016B hap\u016B deed of settlement to work with iwi, hap\u016B and the council in order to agree on the detail of the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee, in order to introduce this legislation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000252\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EThis form of Treaty settlement redress is consistent with the Government\u2019s overarching position on natural resource management and the settlement of historic Treaty settlement claims. So I believe that the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council and local iwi are leading the way in the management of natural resources. I commend the vision and leadership of tangata whenua and this council in establishing the planning committee. I consider that the bill should proceed without delay to the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee, and I commend this bill to the House. T\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tou. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022 data-id=\u00220a65142ea1234306a821c01c6445d806\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000253\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220a65142ea1234306a821c01c6445d806\u0022\u003EMEKA WHAITIRI (Labour\u2014Ikaroa-R\u0101whiti):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100 t\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Assistant Speaker. Te Whare e t\u016B nei, \u0101, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou. Parit\u016B ki runga, T\u016Brakirae ki raro, ng\u0101 roherohenga o t\u014Dku iwi Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu. Kahungunu ki uta, Kahungunu ki tai, Kahungunu ararau, te hononga m\u0101reikura o Kahungunu, Kahungunu Ringa-hora, te mana o \u014Dku whenua e mihi atu nei, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000254\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker and acknowledgments to you the House before me collectively. The tribal boundaries of my Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu people extend to Parit\u016B above and to T\u016Brakirae below. Kahungunu extends inland and shoreward. It is transient and of noble connections. Kahungunu begat of Ringa-hora is I, prestige of my lands extending this greeting to you all, so accolades, salutations, and congratulations.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000255\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003EIt is my privilege to join in support of the first reading of this bill. Can I first acknowledge, \u014Dku rau rangatira o te hau k\u0101inga kua tae mai, haere mai, nau mai, piki mai ki t\u014D t\u0101tau Whare. He mihi maioha, he mihi mahana ki a koutou katoa. [Welcome to you my leaders of a hundred fold from back home. Welcome and ascend our House. It is with affection and warmth that I welcome you all.] I have to be on my best behaviour because I have got some kaum\u0101tua sitting up in the gallery, and I do welcome them sincerely here to the first reading of this important bill. Like the previous speaker, the Hon Te Ururoa Flavell, I want to ensure that this bill goes through speedily to the select committee. I too want to stand in support of something that makes absolute sense, where our people from home can assert their mana whenua and their tino rangatiratanga status, particularly when it comes to local government. So I do want to acknowledge my wholehearted support for this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000256\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003ECan I pause just a wee bit to acknowledge the mihi that has gone out this morning for those who have lost dear ones. I too want to acknowledge the passing of Eru Thompson. I actually interviewed Eru for a job in Tainui many, many years ago, so I do have fond memories of him. I farewell him in his journey, and my mihi goes to his wh\u0101nau as well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000257\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003ELooking up in the gallery at my people from home, I see my Uncle Bevan and I think of my Auntie Noreen Taylor. I want to acknowledge you, uncle, for being here, and I particularly want to acknowledge the passing of Auntie Noreen, who was a stellar person not only on our marae in P\u0101tiki but for all the work she did in Kahungunu on behalf of our people. E mihi kau ana ki a koe, ki a koutou katoa. [A prolonged acknowledgment is extended to you all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000258\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003EI, like other speakers are going to say on this bill, want to ensure that the legislation that we are reading in the House today, and at the select committee in time, is fit for purpose and is future proof. When I look at the bill, I particularly want to draw people\u2019s attention to the preamble recitals (2) and (3). For the benefit of the people in the House, recital (2) states: \u201CIn the Deed of Settlement dated 17 December 2010 between the Crown and Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera, the Crown committed to establish a committee comprised of an equal number of Council members and representatives of Treaty settlement claimant groups whose role would relate to natural resource planning processes that affect the region, and include drafting and recommending to the Council, plan and policy changes affecting natural resources in the region:\u201D. When you turn your attention to the preamble recital (3), it then goes on to say: \u201CThe Deed of Settlement dated 25 May 2013 between the Crown and the Maungaharuru-Tangit\u016B Hap\u016B records that the trustees of the Maungaharuru-Tangit\u016B Trust, the Council, and other Hawke\u2019s Bay iwi and hap\u016B have agreed interim terms of reference for the committee that were adopted by the Council on 14 December 2011:\u201D. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000259\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003EWhen I read those two recitals, I understand that the purpose of this bill is that tangata whenua, mana whenua, can exercise their rights at the table with the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council. When I read these two particular recitals, one\u2014recital (2)\u2014is of a very technical component. It talks about having an in-depth knowledge of the Resource Management Act and the technicalities that come through planning. That is what I get when I read recital (2). When I read recital (3), we look at all the Treaty settlement payment groups plus other Hawke\u2019s Bay iwi. I know that the previous speaker acknowledged the make-up of the tangata whenua members of the regional planning committee. We have one member appointed from Maungaharuru-Tangit\u016B. We have one member from Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera. We have one member from T\u016Bhoe, Te Uru Taumatua. I would like to think that Kahungunu was large enough to take over T\u016Bhoe but we are not quite there yet. We have one member from the Ngati Tuwharetoa Hapu Forum Trust. We have one member from Mana Ahuri Inc., which is the hap\u016B of Napier. We have one member appointed by Ng\u0101ti Hineuru, which is on the Napier-Taup\u014D road. We have one member appointed from Te Tira Whakaemi o Te Wairoa h\u014Dp\u016Bp\u016B, h\u014Dngenengene, m\u0101 te tangirau. We have two members appointed from He Toa Takitini, which is the Heretaunga to Tamatea\u2014Hastings down to Central Hawke\u2019s Bay\u2014region. Of course, what we are also seeking, in terms of membership, is one appointed by the appointer for Ng\u0101ti Ruapani ki Waikaremoana. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000260\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003EI am more than happy that these listed members make up the Treaty settlement groups over which the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council has jurisdiction, but I cannot help but feel that there is a responsibility to have memberships that represent a completely iwi-wide perspective to ensure that that is not lost in the scheme of what we are passing in front of us. I will declare a conflict of interest, being a former chief executive of Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu Iwi Inc. I am still a bit mystified as to what has gone on around the involvement at the table in terms of this meeting. I am sure it will come out in the select committee consideration. But my earlier points that I made in referencing those two recitals were around membership and capability. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000261\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003EWhat I want to share with the House is a report that I have received from the environment and natural resources unit of Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu Iwi Inc. The breadth and cover of a two-person unit, in terms of both the resourcing matters back in the Kahungunu rohe\u2014like I said, from Parit\u016B down to Turakirae\u2014the expertise, and, I guess, knowledge of dealing at both a Resource Management Act level and from an iwi-wide perspective are lost in terms of the membership grouping that we are passing through the House in this bill. I guess what I am putting out there\u2014and it will come up, like I said, through the select committee consideration\u2014is the possibility of including the iwi-wide perspective in this arrangement to ensure that things like freshwater issues, like marine protection, and like developing capacity in terms of scientists at the local level, are not lost. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000262\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022073496a0-73b7-426f-97f8-916bd542b0fa\u0022\u003EI want to be very clear for my wh\u0101nau sitting in the gallery. This is not to say that the members whom we enlisted cannot do the job. The contribution I am making is to support this piece of legislation through capacity and through membership that can also put a wide-view lens on what are going to be really critical issues currently facing our people back home in Kahungunu, Hawke\u2019s Bay, when it comes to fresh water, when it comes to oil drilling, and when it comes to marine farming and aquafarming. We need to be able to bring all our skills and capabilities to the fore. It is my pleasure to stand and support this bill, prefaced on the fact that we need to employ all available skills and expertise to ensure that this bill is future proof, fit for purpose, and successful. N\u014D reira, I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022 data-id=\u00223725ad92893e4c1c8a7047405dc01118\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000263\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223725ad92893e4c1c8a7047405dc01118\u0022\u003ENUK KORAKO (National):\u003C/span\u003E Kia ora. E mihi atu ki a koutou katoa e ng\u0101 manuhiri a tuaraki, ki a koe. T\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa o ng\u0101 tu\u0101kana o Koukunu M\u0101takirau. E mihi t\u0113nei n\u0101 raro i te puke tapu e k\u012Bia nei ko Te Poho o Tamatea Tuaraka o Te Wai Pounamu, ng\u0101 mihi. E mihi atu ki a koe o Ng\u0101i P\u0101hauwera. E mihi o te uri o Kahu o Te Raki \u0113n\u0101 mauka o T\u0101whirirangi, o te awa o M\u014Dhaka, ng\u0101 mihi.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000264\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003E[Thank you. I acknowledge you all, visitors from afar, and you in particular. I salute you all, elder siblings of Koukunu M\u0101takirau from beneath the sacred hillock referred to as the Bosom of Tamatea Tuaraka of the South Island, greetings. I acknowledge you Ng\u0101i P\u0101hauwera and relatives of Kahu of Te Raki, of those mountains of T\u0101whirirangi, and of the river M\u014Dhaka, greetings.] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000265\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003EI have been to your marae. You have a beautiful wharekai that looks like the Roman Colosseum\u2014wonderful. Kia ora, Toro. I have also taken a number of your kaum\u0101tua when we went across to North Africa, Italy, Gallipoli with D Company, 28th M\u0101ori Battalion. Kia ora, ng\u0101 mihi. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000266\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002229c236aa-2283-4690-9a84-aa865404bb61\u0022\u003ECan I also acknowledge this truly incredible bill, which really signifies the fact about kotahitanga. This bill, the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee Bill, really does incorporate M\u0101ori and non-M\u0101ori in that whole area of collectiveness. What I want to do here is, first of all, to commend this bill to the House and also say that this bill is coming towards a journey that I am privileged to receive as the chair of the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. We look forward to receiving this bill and sending it back to the House. N\u014D reira, e mihi atu ki a koutou katoa, kia ora.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022 data-id=\u0022b6f28b317648434dafa1caeb24d0da03\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000267\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b6f28b317648434dafa1caeb24d0da03\u0022\u003ESTUART NASH (Labour\u2014Napier):\u003C/span\u003E Kia ora koutou, Mr Assistant Speaker. It is with great pleasure that I rise to speak in support of this, the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee Bill. But, before I do, I would just like to acknowledge the distinguished tangata whenua represented on the committee that this bill gives effect to. Kia ora. Welcome. It is also with great pleasure that I find myself working very closely with someone of such quality, passion, energy, and commitment as Meka Whaitiri. Miss Whaitiri and I are dedicated to working closely together on the issues that are important to the people of the East Coast to help find solutions to the problems that many in our communities are facing due to the tough economic times faced by the regions. Although there are a number of issues of absolutely vital importance, there is the issue of sustainable economic development\u2014of jobs for our people, of creating opportunities for our communities. This paramount consideration is why I feel privileged to speak on this bill, because I believe it is just part of the jigsaw that forms the whole puzzle around creating sustainable economic development. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000268\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003EFirst of all, in order to give credit where credit is due, I stand and applaud the Hon Chris Finlayson and the dedication, energy, work, and commitment that he has brought to this very important task of righting past wrongs. He did, of course, have extremely big shoes to fill following the Hon Sir Michael Cullen, but luckily for New Zealand he also has extremely big feet. So the long march to redressing the injustices that started, I believe, under Norman Kirk continues unabated today. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000269\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003EEven though this bill is called the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee Bill, I do not see it as being about giving effect to a committee, but rather ratifying a partnership\u2014a partnership between parties that will come together with a common purpose and that can teach and learn from one another. What I learnt in my role as forestry spokesperson across a whole range of consultation is that when it comes to land, P\u0101keh\u0101 often talk about ownership. That has more of a short-term focus. M\u0101ori speak of stewardship, or kaitiakitanga. It is a beautiful word that we really do not have in the English language, which is a shame because it embodies in one word the philosophy that I actually believe we should be practising in the 21st century. Although I had heard the word, I did not really understand its meaning until I started talking to those for whom it is the only way. No one owns the land or the natural resources, but, rather, people are custodians of the land for future generations. If we are good custodians, then the land will be good to us. It will feed us, it will provide employment for our families, shelter, and land to call home for our children and our children\u2019s children. But, most important, sound stewardship of the land will allow future generations to reap the rewards that respect of any resource continues to provide. This is why I see this committee that this bill ratifies as a partnership. It can be a very important and powerful committee for change. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000270\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003EAlthough it is of vital importance that the committee works well and that it is highly functional, it is most important that the views of all those who seek a position upon the board are respected. This legislation sets out the bones for this, but it is only words. Success will be defined by actions. There are issues around resource management like the dam, like fracking, like fish stocks, and like water quality, for example, that this committee should work collaboratively on\u2014come up with solutions, but teach each other, learn from one another. Only when we work together and marry 21st century legislative requirements with a growing awareness that we are, in fact, only stewards of this wonderful land will we ever be able to move forward as a nation and as a region. Out of this, I see only opportunities coming out of partnership and meaningful collaboration. I see a region where there are plentiful jobs and thriving industries and engaged communities and healthy children and engaged wh\u0101nau. I see a region where there is a pride that comes from knowing that together we are stronger and we can achieve anything. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000271\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bbded2ec-ac25-4a73-a380-3f4d87693084\u0022\u003ESo my key message really is that for a vision to be realised, we must first understand that we all have something important to offer and lessons to learn and teachings to give. This bill is one of the many steps to a future where we all work together to realise the region\u2019s potential for current and future generations. It is a future based on mutual respect and trust, based on kaitiakitanga. Thank you very much. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022 data-id=\u0022ce9d3d73634b4941b094114d578db433\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000272\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ce9d3d73634b4941b094114d578db433\u0022\u003EJOANNE HAYES (Third Whip\u2014National):\u003C/span\u003E I seek leave for this debate on the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee Bill to continue into the lunch adjournment if necessary. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u00227dd8058706064f748b748d1a67afa61a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000273\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227dd8058706064f748b748d1a67afa61a\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: To continue beyond the lunch adjournment? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000274\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b6fac39cb30746f2a3e3917007cff2fb\u0022\u003EJoanne Hayes\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, beyond.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000275\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002239eab0428b0148d6ac98e591aa3add91\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there any objection? There is no objection. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022 data-id=\u00222d0ead5e90b240fd9048a78e97307f82\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222d0ead5e90b240fd9048a78e97307f82\u0022\u003EMARAMA FOX (Co-Leader\u2014M\u0101ori Party):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koe e Te Mana Whakaw\u0101. Tuatahi kei te hiahia au ki te whakatakoto, ki te whakapuaki i t\u0113tahi o ng\u0101 karakia o te k\u0101inga o Ng\u0101ti Porou, o Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu ki te Wairarapa. \u201CMai i rara r\u0101, mai i rara r\u0101, mai i rara r\u0101 te rangi runga nei, mai i rara r\u0101 te papa i raro nei, mai i rara r\u0101 Te K\u0101hui Ariki, Te Kahui Tipua, Te K\u0101hui Tauira. Tuku ana, tuku ana, tuku ana Te Reo kia rere. Tuku ana te kupu kia taka, tuku ana te take kia mau \u016B e h\u0101, \u016B e h\u0101! \u016A e h\u0101 nuku, \u016B e h\u0101 rangi, \u016B e h\u0101 T\u0101ne-nui-\u0101-Rangi, T\u0101ne Whakapiripiri, n\u0101na te rangi i runga nei i toko kia t\u016B h\u0101h\u0101, kia t\u016B k\u0113 ana nuku, kia t\u016B k\u0113 \u0101na rangi. Ka tangi te hau, ka matao, ka ao, ka awatea, tihei mauri ora!\u201D E tika ana kia mihi ki a koutou \u014Dku pou, \u014Dku rahi, ng\u0101 h\u0101kui, ng\u0101 h\u0101koro o te k\u0101inga, me k\u012B te k\u0101inga. He hononga t\u0101 m\u0101tau o Te Wairarapa, ko koutou t\u0113n\u0101 i tiaki, i manaaki i a m\u0101tau i rere atu ki Te M\u0101hia, ki Nukutaurua i a m\u0101tau i rere atu. N\u0101 reira, t\u0113n\u0101 te hononga o Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu ki Te Wairarapa. Koi nei au e tuku mihi atu ki a koutou e haere \u0101-tinana mai ki te whakarongo \u0101-taringa kia kite \u0101-karu, kia rongo \u0101-wairua hoki n\u0101 reira, t\u0113nei te mihi mahana, te mihi matakuikui ki a koutou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000277\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker. In the first instance I want to commence by reciting one of the incantations from back home, from Ng\u0101ti Porou and Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu to the Wairarapa. \u201CFrom beyond the heavenly realm above and the earth below, from the cluster of aristocracy, supernatural and the pre-ordained, allow the language unfettered license to flow. Allow the word to roam at large and the matter to be comprehended and fixed firmly. Breathe it repeatedly and extensively T\u0101ne-nui-a-Rangi and T\u0101ne Whakapiripiri, the one who propped up the heavenly realm above so that its numberless heavens above it stood resolutely. The wind screams, extreme cold takes hold, day dawns, day light comes, and behold the breath of life!\u201D It is fitting that I acknowledge you my support pillars, my many, my elderly women and menfolk from back home, let\u2019s say the real home. We of the Wairarapa have connections with you who looked after and helped us when we left home and travelled that way to Te M\u0101hia then on to Nukutaurua. So the connection of Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu to Te Wairarapa was forged that way. This then is the reason why I am extending this welcome to you collectively who came here personally to hear, see and experience the spirituality of the occasion. And so I acknowledge you all with a warming and joyful thank you.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000278\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EI am pleased to be able to stand in support of the first reading of the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee Bill. It makes me proud to come from Ikaroa-R\u0101whiti when we are in this House today debating the fact that the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council and local iwi are leading the way in the management of natural resources. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000279\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EActually, \u201Cdebate\u201D is the wrong word. In reality, the relationship between the regional council and the iwi represents a joint approach to planning in Hawke\u2019s Bay\u2014a weaving-together. Indeed, as my colleague the Minister for M\u0101ori Development noted so well in his melodic rendition of \u201CT\u016Btira mai ng\u0101 iwi\u201D\u2014because that is how we do it in the M\u0101ori Party, and I want to mihi to him\u2014it expresses the unity needed and the unity that this bill outlines. I want to mihi to the wh\u0101nau, hap\u016B, and iwi of Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera, Maungaharuru-Tangit\u016B Inc., Mana Ahuriri Inc., Ng\u0101ti Hineuru Iwi Inc., Ng\u0101ti Ruapani, Te Tira Whakaemi o Te Wairoa, Ng\u0101ti T\u016Bwharetoa, and Ng\u0101i T\u016Bhoe. He Toa Takitini also have the option to join in. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EThe planning committee is a benchmark model of tangata whenua and local government working together\u2014a wonderfully vibrant concept of all parties coming together to focus on what they can do together to create a prosperous economy and a clean and healthy environment, now and for future generations. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000281\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EThe irony of the timeliness around this bill, of course, is that while we in the M\u0101ori Party are struggling and trying to delay the process of the Resource Management Act because we have been concerned that developments were compromising the integrity of kaitiakitanga, here our people are just getting out and boldly taking on those challenges to show us that when we recognise M\u0101ori as value added, as the local authorities have done here\u2014that is, as an asset and not a deficit\u2014then we can boldly work together to realise true ambi-cultural nationhood and protect our taonga together. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000282\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EThe Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee Bill provides tangible living proof that tangata whenua are kaitiaki, or guardians, of the region\u2019s natural resources and have a key role in the way that resources are managed both now and in the future. It shows, on paper and in practice, that new partnerships are possible between tangata whenua and regional councils. Through the committee, iwi will be able to contribute towards planning for the use of natural resources and environmental outcomes through regional plans and regional policy statements. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000283\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EWhy is this important? Essentially, it shows us that Treaty partnerships can be actioned and honoured through engagement and consultation. But it is also about practical ways of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of planning in the regions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000284\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EI want to share a comment that came from the report, from Toro Waaka, co-chair of the regional planning committee. It says: \u201CThe integration of t\u0101ngata whenua perspectives into the region\u2019s planning and policy has provided t\u0101ngata whenua with a vehicle to fulfil their role as Kaitiaki of the region\u2019s resources. The committee is committed to develop plans and policies to provide for current needs as well as promote sustainable environmental outcomes for future generations.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000285\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EI have to contrast what we have seen in the Hawke\u2019s Bay with some of the public outrage associated with the proposed Auckland Unitary Plan provisions concerning mana whenua. The M\u0101ori Party believes that we must always balance any changes associated with lifting economic gains with the responsibilities that come from kaitiakitanga. \u201CBalance\u201D is the operative word. When we know that only 0.33 percent of all resource consents submitted to the Auckland Council triggered the provision to consult mana whenua, it provides a sense of perspective about the costs of cultural assessment. We are talking about just 200 out of 6,000 resource consents that were required to undertake that consultation, and of those 200, only 20 were declined. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000286\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EIt is all a matter of perspective. In the Hawke\u2019s Bay, the balance is far more genuine, in my humble Ikaroa-R\u0101whiti opinion. With an equal number of regional councillors and tangata whenua group representatives, the planning committee is the co-governance group for the management of natural and physical resources in the Hawke\u2019s Bay. The focus is consistently driven by the need to ensure better planning processes, and, ultimately, better outcomes for Hawke\u2019s Bay. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000287\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EThe committee is chaired under a dual chairmanship agreement, with the chairman of the regional council and a nominated tangata whenua representative, Mr Toro Waaka. The other novel feature of the committee is that decisions are made with at least 80 percent consensus, rather than a 50 percent majority with the chair\u2019s casting vote. Members of the committee, particularly tangata whenua, can therefore undertake long-term planning that spans multiple years. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000288\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EWhen the M\u0101ori Party took its manifesto to the people this year, a big focus of our environmental policy was on kaitiakitanga, reviving the role of kaitiaki for whanau, hap\u016B, and iwi. As M\u0101ori we have a kaitiaki, or guardianship role, of our natural resources, based on the spiritual and cultural relationship we have always had with the environment. In that respect, M\u0101ori are the true Greens. M\u0101ori therefore have a crucial role in the management of these resources, including our rivers, mountains, and national parks. It is our responsibility and right to protect, restore, and enhance the environment. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000289\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c3d9fd88-4715-419d-be08-e1c4eda7d09e\u0022\u003EWhat we see here today is in fact a true ambi-cultural nation, and a true partnership in action. It shows that we as M\u0101ori can be true Treaty partners and work in collaboration with our local governments. When that is recognised across this nation, then we will truly go forward. I have no hesitation in supporting this bill for our people and for our country. T\u0113n\u0101 koe.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022 data-id=\u0022cb7f4e05a7e347548b75c541e5423c00\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000290\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022cb7f4e05a7e347548b75c541e5423c00\u0022\u003EDAVID CLENDON (Green):\u003C/span\u003E Ko te mihi o te r\u0101 ki a koutou. I am pleased to take a short call on behalf of the Greens on this Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Planning Committee Bill. It is not an unusual bill, but it is one that is not typical in the context of Treaty settlements. As we know, of course, it establishes a statutory body with equal numbers of tangata whenua and council appointees that will develop, review, and oversee the regional plans and regional policy statements for that area. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000291\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EWe see this in a positive light. It is an expression of something closer to co-governance rather than simply co-management. Tangata whenua will take their rightful place at the position where key decisions are made, and where the significant shape and scoping out of what this area, this rohe, will look like in the future will be decided. That is as it should be, and that is entirely appropriate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000292\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EIt is fair to say that in an ideal world, this bill would not be necessary. In a former life I was an academic and researcher around resource management planning issues, and I know very well that in the late 1980s there was a long and quite deep conversation in New Zealand about land management, planning, and managing our natural resources. We had something of a muddle of legislation and town and country planning laws. Rivers were managed as if they had no relationship with land, and vice versa. It was an entirely unsatisfactory and unhelpful set of rules, regulations, and, indeed, institutions that sought to manage land, water, and the environment generally. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EOut of that conversation in the 1980s, of course, evolved the Resource Management Act. M\u0101ori were active participants in the conversations and the development of the Resource Management Act. I think there was some sense of celebration that in the Act as it emerged finally in 1991, right up there in section 6, \u201CMatters of national importance\u201D, it is required that everybody exercising power and functions under the Act should \u201Crecognise and provide for\u201D, among other things, \u201Cthe relationship of Maori and their culture and traditions with their ancestral lands, water, sites, waahi tapu, and other taonga:\u201D. There is also the \u201Cprotection of protected customary rights.\u201D This is language we had never before seen in legislation of this nature, and it was seen as a significant step forward. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000294\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003ESimilarly, in section 7, persons exercising functions and responsibilities shall have particular regard to \u201Ckaitiakitanga:\u201D and to the \u201Cintrinsic values of ecosystems:\u201D. Kaitiakitanga, of course, is a uniquely M\u0101ori concept. It is a bundle of rights and responsibilities exercised by mana whenua. Intrinsic value is a Western concept that reflects very clearly the M\u0101ori notion that the whenua has an identity of its own in its own right, irrespective of any identity we might place on it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000295\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003ESection 8 of the Act, of course, requires people to \u201Ctake into account the principles of\u201D Te Tiriti o Waitangi, a somewhat weaker provision but nevertheless one that was rightly celebrated at the time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000296\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EIn a sense, it is an unfortunate reflection on how the application and the implementation of the Resource Management Act over the 20 years - plus has wound out that, indeed, here in 2014 we are obliged to establish a stand-alone statutory body to ensure there is a strong M\u0101ori voice in decision making around resource management and around the future of the land, the awa, and, indeed, the communities. So I see this as a positive step, but in a sense I also regret that we have taken so long. We have had legislation that potentially empowers iwi and hap\u016B to be involved actively, and in a very important and significant way, in resource management decisions. I think we have collectively failed to maximise that opportunity\u2014that potential\u2014within the Resource Management Act provisions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000297\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003ENevertheless, this is, as I say, a good piece of legislation. I must reflect on the fact that my colleague Catherine Delahunty has today, in fact, been engaging and talking with the iwi authority of Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu. She is hearing some concerns voiced about the legislation and about the level of engagement with Kahungunu. I would hope that as this bill progresses, that will be acknowledged and some of that put right. I am hearing this only second-hand, but I am seeing my colleague Marama Fox nodding here\u2014and her insight into Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu affairs would be significantly greater than mine\u2014so one hopes that that oversight will be seen to as this bill progresses. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000298\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e959f20f-3de7-4f54-8577-8ea78d72c3dd\u0022\u003EOn that point, as I say, I reiterate that the Greens are happy to support this legislation and look forward to ensuring that M\u0101oridom has a rightful place in decision making in the Hawke\u2019s Bay region. Kia ora.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022 data-id=\u0022b918a5187ea44e6b88d9597028786c89\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000299\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b918a5187ea44e6b88d9597028786c89\u0022\u003EPITA PARAONE (NZ First): \u003C/span\u003E\u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Assistant Speaker, t\u0113n\u0101 an\u014D t\u0101tou. Koutou ng\u0101 manuhiri, ng\u0101 kair\u012Bwhi o ng\u0101 r\u014Dp\u016B i \u2019hakararangitia i roto i te pire nei, e t\u016B w\u0101hi poto t\u0113nei ki te tautoko ng\u0101 mihi, i mihingia e t\u014D t\u0101tou Minita m\u014D ng\u0101 Take M\u0101ori ki a koutou ki te hou mai nei i roto i t\u0113nei Whare. N\u0101 reira, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000300\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker, and greetings to us once again. Acknowledgments to you the visitors, and to those of you filling in for your parties and lauded in this bill. This is but a short call to endorse the tributes accorded by our Minister of M\u0101ori Development to you who came into this House. So greetings to you collectively.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000301\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EI stand on behalf of New Zealand First to first of all indicate our support for this bill going to the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. In doing so, we certainly support the intent of it. The fact that this planning committee has already been in existence for a wee while now does beg the question as to why we should have legislation. It also begs the question why there is a clause in the bill that says that the committee, once this bill is passed, is to meet. The question that arises for me is what the position of those decisions made by the committee leading up to the introduction of this bill is. I have no doubt that during the select committee process that question will be answered. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000302\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EI think that the Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council and the respective groups that are listed in the bill should be commended for the approach they have taken to addressing these issues within their rohe. It does raise another question for us in New Zealand First if you consider the signals that the Government is making, the intent, in respect of the Resource Management Act. I just wonder whether or not the intended changes to that piece of legislation may mean that we are setting up a committee that probably could become toothless, so to speak, in that the very concerns that two parties particularly may have\u2014tangata whenua and the regional council\u2014may be removed from the original Resource Management Act. Again, the select committee process is an opportunity for us to hear not only from officials but from the regional council and those iwi groups that are listed in this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000303\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EThe fact is, though, that this is part of a Treaty settlement, and I think the Government needs to be congratulated on accepting this process. I just want to say to our relations in Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu that we from Te Tai Tokerau\u2014and there are a number of us in this House\u2014feel obliged that we should support our relatives, albeit that they left us some centuries ago, left us bereft, and today we are still settling our Treaty claims while you progress. T\u0113n\u0101 pea tukuna mai he aroha ki a m\u0101tou o Te Tai Tokerau kia hoki mai ki te k\u0101inga. Kia ahatia? Kia ahatia? Ko te mea nui kua tau k\u0113 t\u0113nei pire. N\u0101 koutou e hiahia ana kia kite atu i te \u2019hakamana o t\u0113nei pire hei ture. N\u0101 reira, ki \u0101 m\u0101tou i roto o Aotearoa Tuatahi e t\u016B kaha ana ki te tautoko i t\u0101 koutou hiahia. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000304\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003E[Perhaps you might consider cutting us of Northland a bit of slack by saying come home, to do what, to achieve what? The important thing is that this bill has been settled. You wanted this bill enacted. Therefore, to us of New Zealand First, we strongly endorse your wish.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000305\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cba965bb-864f-4e06-99dc-6fcdfd007ad5\u0022\u003EAgain, this is just a short call. I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022 data-id=\u002206efac594eb547cbb7a4a442fdd07386\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000306\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002206efac594eb547cbb7a4a442fdd07386\u0022\u003ERINO TIRIKATENE (Labour\u2014Te Tai Tonga):\u003C/span\u003E \u0100, e Te Mana Whakaw\u0101 t\u0113n\u0101 koe. E aku rangatira, ng\u0101 manuhiri tu\u0101rangi n\u014D Te Tai R\u0101whiti kua hara mai nei i roto t\u0113nei Whare P\u0101remata, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou. Nau mai, haere mai ki Te Ana o ng\u0101 Raiona e takat\u016B nei. E rau rangatira m\u0101 huri rauna i t\u0113nei Whare, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000307\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker. To you my leaders, and visitors from the East Coast who have arrived here in Parliament House, greetings and acknowledgments to you collectively. Welcome, draw closer to the lion\u2019s den waiting here in readiness, and accolades, acknowledgments collectively to you my leaders of a hundredfold throughout this House, and to us all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000308\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EI am delighted to speak in the first reading of this bill, and also to round off the contributions from the Labour Party today. We wholeheartedly support this bill. Like all of these extended sittings, these are historic sessions in Parliament, and I do acknowledge our iwi from Te Tai Tokerau who have been here today for their first readings. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000309\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EI am reminded, as we consider this bill, of the great Minister of M\u0101ori Affairs in the third Labour Government, the Hon Matiu Rata, who initiated, through the passage of Te Tiriti o Waitangi Act back in the mid-1970s, this modern era of Treaty settlements that we are part of today. I do acknowledge him and especially because of his iwi, Te Hiku o Te Ika, who are here today to have the first reading of their bill. It is a very historic occasion. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000310\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EAs I turn to this bill I am making only a short contribution, but can I, firstly, acknowledge all of the r\u014Dp\u016B who are part of the committee that will be formally constituted through the passage of this legislation. I acknowledge my whanaunga from Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera and I see Toro Waaka up there, who, through the passage of the P\u0101hauwera settlements, basically initiated the formation of this committee. That was also affirmed by Maungaharuru-Tangit\u016B, and I see T\u0101nia and Bevan there as well\u2014representatives from that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000311\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EWe are in the 51st Parliament now, but highlights for me in the 50th Parliament were definitely the passage of so many pieces of settlement legislation, and I do acknowledge the Minister and all the work that we do as members of the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee. During the 50th Parliament we saw the passage of the settlements of Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera, Maungaharuru-Tangit\u016B, and also the Te Urewera-T\u016Bhoe settlement as well. They are all represented as members of this committee. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000312\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EThis bill is about increasing M\u0101ori\u2014hap\u016B\u2014involvement in natural resource decision-making. As I acknowledged, through the instigation of the Treaty of Waitangi settlements in this modern era we are seeing a whole lot of unique configurations of joint management advisory committees\u2014all sorts of different joint decision-making bodies in the local government space. I do commend that. I have got a very big electorate, but if I look to the south we have got Ng\u0101i Tahu and our regional groupings, which we have, for instance, down in Murihiku or in the Canterbury region, where they work very closely with the local authorities of those regions. I also acknowledge the Greater Wellington Regional Council, which had its own self-initiated bespoke committee that was created, Te Upoko Taiao\u2014and I do acknowledge the Hon Fran Wilde, who is in the House here today. I know that might not be in accordance with the Standing Orders, but I do acknowledge the Hon Fran Wilde for her work with the Greater Wellington Regional Council. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000313\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EWe are seeing the proliferation\u2014and it is a wonderful thing\u2014of these joint management bodies right around Aotearoa. From the north to the south, east to the west, local authorities are working with mana whenua, with hap\u016B, and with iwi on resource management decision-making processes and long may it continue. Long may it continue. I guess our M\u0101ori aspirations, as we have mentioned throughout our k\u014Drero today, are for tino rangatiratanga. We want an equal say. We do want an equal say. We want that partnership in natural resource management and we do want to influence the way that decisions are reached. These committees that are created, such as the committee under this bill, are a way and a means for our being able to express that partnership, that kaitiakitanga, those aspirations that we have. But this is given meaningful effect\u2014meaningful effect\u2014through this legislation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000314\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EI do want to acknowledge the points made by my whanaunga n\u014D te n\u014Dta, Mr Paraone. I think he did raise some interesting points around the validity of decision making, given that the committee has been operating for, I guess, over a year now, and I am sure that those matters can be easily sorted out with us at the select committee level. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000315\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EI do also note the contributions from our fine member for Ikaroa-R\u0101whiti, Meka Whaitiri, regarding the exclusion of the Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu iwi incorporated body. Given that this bill does encompass the Hawke\u2019s Bay regional planning and the regional council, which not only takes into account the land but takes into account water and the coastal and marine environment, and, given that Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu Iwi Inc. is a mandated iwi authority for the purposes of fisheries matters in terms of the fisheries settlement\u2014and I know that they have had applications that they have made for marine farming out on the coast there\u2014there should be consideration given to their inclusion in this bill, perhaps, to make sure. Although, I know that Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu is completely represented as well through the representation of all the hap\u016B that together make up the wonderful iwi of Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu. So there are issues that we will consider at the select committee. I am looking forward to working with my other whanaunga, Nuk Korako from Te Wai Pounamu, Ng\u0101i Tahu wh\u0101nui, and other members on those particular matters. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000316\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EJust to conclude my contribution today, I did enjoy the contribution from the Hon Te Ururoa Flavell, with his melodic utterance of the beautiful waiata from another whanaunga of mine, from Ng\u0101ti P\u0101hauwera, Canon W\u012B Huata, who penned that wonderful tune. What a wonderful kaum\u0101tua he was. I do have fond memories as a little boy going up to M\u014Dhaka and seeing him in full flight. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000317\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EFor the record, and just to complete my contribution, the words of that waiata, \u201CT\u016Btira mai ng\u0101 iwi\u201D, are very, very apt for our k\u014Drero, our deliberation on these bills this morning. But what I wanted to do is, just for the record of Hansard, correct a really common faux pas. There is an extra word that has been brought into one of the lines of \u201CT\u016Btira mai ng\u0101 iwi\u201D. For the life of me\u2014it should not be there. It is \u201Ckia tapatahi\u201D. The last few lines go: \u201CKia tapatahi, Kia kotahi r\u0101, T\u0101tou t\u0101tou e\u201D. When I grew up, we added a \u201Cko\u201D in there: \u201CKia ko tapatahi.\u201D That \u201Cko\u201D should not be there, and I have that on direct authority from the Huata wh\u0101nau. So for the record of Hansard and for the benefit of Aotearoa, for those people tuning in, I want to ask that we remove that little \u201Cko\u201D that crept into that line. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000318\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b4a597dd-ed8b-42b8-975b-40c6e0cdaee1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022259a3d4e4ac6458ca6b4796de74b3d49\u0022\u003ELouisa Wall\u003C/span\u003E: Sing the line, Rino.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000319\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224018c7e7f2c2404fb23149045fdf9ded\u0022\u003ERINO TIRIKATENE\u003C/span\u003E: OK, I will have to call on my tuahine here to join me. Let us do the whole lot, and then we will round it off: \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000320\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003ET\u016Btira mai ng\u0101 iwi\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000321\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003ET\u0101tou t\u0101tou e\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000322\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003ET\u016Btira mai ng\u0101 iwi\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003ET\u0101tou t\u0101tou e\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000324\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EWhaia te m\u0101ramatanga\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000325\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EMe te aroha\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000326\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EE ng\u0101 iwi\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000327\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EKia tapatahi\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000328\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EKia kotahi r\u0101\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000329\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003ET\u0101tou t\u0101tou e\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000330\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003EKia ora, Mr Assistant Speaker. T\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u002245ce97a61d224a1596fb8e70075fd279\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000331\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002245ce97a61d224a1596fb8e70075fd279\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I am going to call the Hon Craig Foss and see whether he can match that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022 data-id=\u0022ca80e323cac1412f9848db2c196ac0d3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000332\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ca80e323cac1412f9848db2c196ac0d3\u0022\u003EHon CRAIG FOSS (Minister for Small Business):\u003C/span\u003E Ha, ha! I have just learnt that it is very obvious, the Huata connection there\u2014not only in size and stature but with the voice. So there you go. It is so obvious, now as I look across the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000333\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003ET\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa. Can I please acknowledge not only the wonderful, passionate, driven, professional people from Hawke\u2019s Bay in the gallery here today representing various iwi but also our regional council. I notice the seating arrangements up there in the gallery are very significant. I do not know whether you are meant to be wrapped around as you are, but I see it as quite significant. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000334\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003ECan I also acknowledge a great friend and a fine man who, I am sure, is here with us in spirit but would love to be here physically with us, and that is the Hon Parekura Horomia, who was from Ikaroa-R\u0101whiti and had been engaged right from the start in all of these discussions. The bit we always loved in discussions on these type of Treaty-related legislation\u2014particularly we as the National Party\u2014was when Parekura would get up and give us a good clap and show his true colours in support of the things that we are doing. But jokes aside, I acknowledge the Hon Parekura Horomia, who I know would love to actually be here. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000335\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003EHawke\u2019s Bay continues to lead the way across New Zealand once again\u2014Ranfurly Shield country. For the record: Ranfurly Shield country continues to lead the way\u2014Hawke\u2019s Bay. These are such exciting times for not only our country but particularly across all of Hawke\u2019s Bay, and particularly those Kahungunu areas. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000336\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003ECan I just acknowledge the origins of this particular bill. I recall having discussions with the Hon Chris Finlayson and Fran Wilde 3 years or so ago, or maybe 4 years ago, about how to find ways through some of the challenges in Hawke\u2019s Bay. There were some quite tense discussions\u2014robust discussions, I think we call them these days\u2014but the right outcome was had. To the surprise of many, I think, where we have landed today, it was, you know, not a big deal\u2014no marches\u2014but simply the right landing pad was found and the right people were involved. There were good solutions. Courage was shown by all parties involved to legitimise what should have been happening and what was starting to happen anyway. Ms Wilde and my colleague the Hon Chris Finlayson were just working to find ways through to where we are today, and that has to be acknowledged, I would suggest. The collaborative model that we have found\u2014the cooperative, consultative, cohesive model that we have found\u2014is an absolute credit to everyone who has been involved in this bill\u2019s finding its way to where it is now. In the processes and the other various deed settlement processes leading up to it, we should acknowledge all of those who were involved. Many are not here and many are no longer here, but all of them shared the same drive and passion just to simply do the right thing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000337\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003EIt is a very, very exciting time for Hawke\u2019s Bay, as I have said. We have many Treaty settlements. They are long overdue, I am sure, but they are coming to fruition now. Some have been finalised, and many are very close. It is such an exciting time for Hawke\u2019s Bay. I acknowledge the courage and the professionalism of the many who are involved in starting to address some of the new challenges we will have as to what will happen in and around settlements, be they to do with governance, or be they to do with various assets and things like that, within the region of Hawke\u2019s Bay. It is such an exciting place. Did I mention we have the Ranfurly Shield? I think I will mention it, just to get it on the record again. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000338\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003EThere are lessons to be learnt for the rest of New Zealand here today as to how we have got to this point. Yes, I acknowledge that the bill will, of course, have to go through a select committee, but there are many lessons to be learnt, and I could bravely suggest again that in this process the radicals were ignored and good people got on with the job of finding a solution through quite tortuous areas. And throughout this process, remember, we had quite a few issues in and around water at a central government level, and more and more at a local government level, across Hawke\u2019s Bay, but, again, I just cannot say enough about the group that has got together and achieved this bill here today. So I guess where we have arrived so far, and where we, hopefully, will continue, simply would not have been possible whatsoever without the mana, the courage, the integrity, the professionalism, the bravery, the openness, and the honesty of many people here in the gallery today, many others who have passed before them, and many who are back home, watching and listening to this. Of course, I include in that our Hawke\u2019s Bay Regional Council\u2014both the councillors and the executive\u2014for finding a very courageous way through that will set the path for the rest of New Zealand. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003EBill read a first time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000340\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003EBill referred to the M\u0101ori Affairs Committee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000341\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003EWaiata\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000342\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003EThe House adjourned at 12.50 p.m. (Wednesday)\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id201411044e1767e2a4d24c59ad82faf0202460c1000343\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n  \u003C/body\u003E\n\u003C/html\u003E"